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The Empath Survey

Exploring Sensitivity, Family Roles, and Healing


Are you a highly sensitive person, empath, or someone who has felt like the black sheep in your family?


I’m conducting a research survey to explore the connection between sensitivity, family roles, and healing. This work builds on the research I began in my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program, where I explored how highly sensitive people and empaths are often unconsciously cast into the scapegoat role within dysfunctional family systems.

Your voice matters.

By sharing your experience, you’ll help expand the understanding of sensitivity—not as a flaw, but as a powerful trait that, when misunderstood, can lead to misdiagnosis, shame, and disconnection; Yet when understood leads to healing and empowerment. Together, we can bring more awareness to how sensitivity, trauma, and family dynamics shape our lives and the successful paths for healing.

The survey is confidential and takes about 5-10 minutes.

About You

How do you identify? (Select all that apply)
Have you ever felt like you were the “black sheep” or “scapegoat” in your family?
Yes
No
Unsure
What age range are you in?
18-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55+

Family Experiences

In your family of origin, which role(s) do you feel you were assigned or fell into? (Check all that apply)
Were your emotions often validated or dismissed while growing up?
Validated and supported
Sometimes validated, often dismissed
Rarely validated
Never validated
How often did you feel responsible for other people’s emotions in your family?
Always
Often
Sometimes
Rarely
Never

Sensitivity & Survival

How has your sensitivity shown up in your life? (Check all that apply)
Do you feel your sensitivity was:
Honored and supported
Misunderstood or shamed
Both at different times
Other (please explain)
Have you ever felt misdiagnosed or misunderstood by a mental health professional due to your sensitivity?
Yes
No
Unsure

Healing & Growth

What has helped you most in your healing journey? (Select up to 3)

Would you like to receive updates, insights, and resources for empaths and highly sensitive people? (You can unsubscribe at any time)

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ⓒ 2025 Monica Gagné. All rights reserved.

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