Summary: Researchers from the University of Montreal have used artificial intelligence (AI) to measure the risk of "emotional contagion" among professionals in relationships, such as social workers and psychologists. Emotional contagion, the unconscious transfer of emotions, can lead to burnout and depression. By analyzing facial expressions through AI software while participants watched emotional film clips, the researchers discovered that individuals who were more reactive were at a higher risk of depression and had difficulty showing compassion.

This finding could potentially lead to early management and prevention strategies. The researchers aim to make the AI tool freely available online to assist professionals in managing emotional contagion and better regulating their emotions. Source: University of Montreal