The Role of Compassion and Moral Residue in the Veterinary Professional Identity

Abstract: Ethical dilemmas in veterinary medicine harm veterinarians, as evidenced by a growing body of research and narrative publications. A system of overlapping, and frequently conflicting obligations is a root cause of many veterinary conflicts. But why, exactly, is this commonplace situation so destructive to veterinary professionals?
One possible answer is based in the veterinary identity. Many enter the profession solely motivated by compassion toward animals. Veterinary students ascribe a primary duty to patients, even though the practical (and legal) reality is quite different. Once in practice, veterinarians are compelled to balance frequently conflicting needs of patients and their (human) families, while honoring a core value of relieving animal suffering. The resulting actions often don’t feel like ethical or emotional resolution. Unsurprisingly, the concept of moral residue resonates deeply with many veterinarians. Virtue ethics and relational ethical frameworks provide useful guidance as to why this scenario impacts veterinarians but don’t fully capture unique features of veterinary medicine.
The presentation reports on an investigation into the idea that the detrimental effects of moral residue and/or moral injury directly damage a veterinarians’ positive self-image. Could reclaiming and enlarging a diminished, but core value of compassion help repair that sense of self? This work will introduce related research, and look to bioethics broadly for potential solutions.