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Using Visual Storytelling to Increase Compassion and Empathy

Abby Dougherty
4 min readOct 26, 2024
A book coming out of a universe and ones and zeros to imply digital storytelling through methapor

Visual storytelling has emerged as a powerful way to make that happen. Whether it’s through film, photography, animation, or even virtual reality, visuals cut through the noise and reach people in ways that traditional communication just can’t. It has a unique ability to evoke emotions, foster connection, and ultimately build compassion and empathy.

The Power of Visual Storytelling

We’re wired for stories. They’re how we make sense of the world, and when you pair that natural inclination with visuals, you create a whole new level of connection. Visual storytelling grabs people’s attention and pulls them into a narrative that might be far removed from their own life experiences.

Think about it — when you watch a film or see a series of photos that tell someone’s story, you’re invited into their world. You’re not just reading facts or hearing someone talk about their struggles; you’re seeing it, feeling it. You’re living it alongside them. And in that moment, empathy blooms. You begin to understand, on a visceral level, what it might be like to be in their shoes.

Compassion in Action

But visual storytelling doesn’t stop at empathy — it can lead to real-world action. Compassion, after all, is empathy in motion. Whether it’s a documentary…

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Abby Dougherty
Abby Dougherty

Written by Abby Dougherty

Abby Dougherty, PhD, loves to learn, and produce scholarship on relational-cultural theory, virtual reality, AI, and using mindfulness in counselor education.

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