The book is a culmination of rigorous research and synthesizes key insights and findings from the field of moral injury. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the topic and its implications for clinical practice. The authors, drawing upon the seminal work of Jonathan Shay and Brett Litz, define moral injury as the profound emotional and psychological pain experienced when one’s actions or witnessed actions deeply violate one’s moral or ethical code.

The historical roots of moral injury are traced back to the experiences of Vietnam War veterans, and the concept’s evolution and relevance beyond the military context are explored. The authors examine specific domains where moral injury manifests, including the military, healthcare, higher education, academia, and law enforcement, highlighting the importance of context in understanding and addressing moral injury.