Emotion Review· 2014Q1· Review
Empathy: A Review of the Concept
- 1,586citations
- Q1SCImago
- 2014year
Short summary
A new conceptualization of empathy emerges from critically appraising 43 definitions, identifying 8 key themes and proposing a more consistent framework.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Key points
- 43 discrete definitions of empathy were reviewed.
- Eight themes emerged regarding the nature of empathy.
- A new conceptualization of empathy is proposed.
- A consistent definition is expected to benefit research and practice.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Abstract
The inconsistent definition of empathy has had a negative impact on both research and practice. The aim of this article is to review and critically appraise a range of definitions of empathy and, through considered analysis, to develop a new conceptualisation. From the examination of 43 discrete definitions, 8 themes relating to the nature of empathy emerged: “distinguishing empathy from other concepts”; “cognitive or affective?”; “congruent or incongruent?”; “subject to other stimuli?”; “self/other distinction or merging?”; “trait or state influences?”; “has a behavioural outcome?”; and “automatic or controlled?” The relevance and validity of each theme is assessed and a new conceptualisation of empathy is offered. The benefits of employing a more consistent and complete definition of empathy are discussed.
The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Emotion Review, 2014 · DOI ↗
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Field: Psychiatry and Mental health
Psychiatry and Mental healthMedicine