What does the term "collateral stress" refer to?

The term "collateral stress" specifically refers to the emotional strain that officers may experience due to secondary exposure to others' traumatic experiences. This occurs when individuals in helping professions, such as law enforcement, are indirectly impacted by the trauma experienced by those they serve or support. Officers often witness or hear about traumatic events that affect victims and their families, which can lead to vicarious trauma or emotional fatigue. As a result, it’s crucial for police officers to have coping mechanisms and support systems in place to manage this type of stress effectively, as it can impact their mental health and overall job performance. The focus here is on the emotional implications tied to the experiences and suffering of others, which distinguishes it from the other options presented.