Empathy Mapping for a Domestic Violence Survivor

1. Think and Feel

The survivor experiences a constant whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. They experience fear
and anxiety due to uncertainty about their future. They often question their worth and blame
themselves for the abuse they endured. They might have feelings of guilt mixed with shame and
imaginary failure as a partner or parent. Despite their fear, they strongly desire security, peace,
and a sense of normalcy.
2. Say and Do
The survivor may express their feelings of fear and desperation to trusted friends or household
members. They could also share their desire for freedom and security. Engaging in secretive
behavior, trying to hide the abuse from others due to shame or fear of judgment. They may also
exhibit self-protective behaviors, such as avoiding certain places or people associated with the
abuser to minimize the risk of confrontation.
3. Hear
The survivor may have heard stories from other domestic violence survivors who have found
support and successfully rebuilt their lives. They may have read articles, blogs, or books about
domestic violence, providing them with insights and validating their experiences. They may have
also heard conflicting opinions and misconceptions about domestic violence from different
sources, including friends, family, or the media.
4. See
They may have witnessed their abuser’s anger escalating, leading to physical, emotional, or
verbal abuse. The survivor may have seen objects thrown, broken, or used as weapons during
violent episodes or observed the abuser’s manipulative tactics. The survivor’s surroundings may
have also included a lack of visible support systems or resources for addressing domestic
violence. Limited awareness and community discussions about this issue may have made the
survivor feel even more isolated and misunderstood.
5. Pain/Challenges
They could have struggled to recognize and accept their situations since the manipulation and
control tactics employed by abusers are deeply confusing and disorienting. They might have
faced threats and intimidation, causing fear in the victim and their children. The survivor might
have experienced difficulties accessing immediate and safe housing options because of long
waiting lists at shelters or lack of available, affordable housing.
Financial challenges compounded the situation, as they may have been economically dependent
on the abuser or faced job loss due to the abuse. Additionally, they may have felt ashamed or
believed that others would judge or blame them for their situation, hindering their willingness to
reach out for support.
6. Gain/Opportunity
If the service redesign removed the pains and barriers faced by the survivor, they would
experience significant benefits and opportunities for healing and growth. Immediate and safe
housing options would be readily available, ensuring they and their children can escape the
abusive environment without delay. Financial support and job opportunities tailored for domestic
violence survivors would empower them to regain their independence. A comprehensive support
network would be crucial to the survivor’s journey. Dedicated healthcare professionals,
community organizations, and support groups would provide emotional support, counseling, and
legal assistance.
 The Top Takeaway Ideas
 Understand the survivor’s emotional journey and the complexity of their thoughts and
feelings throughout the domestic violence experience.
 Recognize survivors' challenges and barriers, such as fear, financial instability, limited
resources, and societal stigma.
 Identify the critical need for immediate and safe housing options, financial support,
comprehensive support networks, and tailored services for survivors.
 Realize the importance of empathy, compassion, and non-judgmental support when
interacting with domestic violence survivors.
 Highlight the potential impact of service redesign in removing barriers.
The Relevance of the Empathy Mapping Activity for a PA
 The understanding of domestic violence survivors' experiences, emotions, and needs
gained enables physician assistants to approach patient care with empathy, compassion,
safety, and sensitivity.
 The activity provides more insight in the unique challenges and pain points survivors face
that helps in providing personalized care and support for patients’ medical, psychological,
and emotional needs.
 Empathy mapping encourages collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork. As a PA
collaborating with other healthcare professionals, social workers, counselors, and
community organizations creates a holistic and comprehensive support system for
survivors.
 The insights gained from empathy mapping help in advocating for domestic violence
survivors and connecting them with appropriate resources and support networks. They
help in referring survivors to legal aid services, shelters, and counseling programs.
 Empathy mapping allows the exploration of the influence of cultural factors on a
survivor’s experience. This awareness enhances one’s cultural competence as a healthcare
provider, enabling the provision of culturally sensitive care.