Empathy: A Review of the Concept. (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cuff, Benjamin M.P.; Brown, Sarah J.; Taylor, Laura; Howat, Douglas J.
• Is Part Of: Emotion review. Volume 8:Number 2(2016:Apr.)
• Page Start: 144
• Page End: 153
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: affective empathy -- cognitive empathy -- definition -- empathy -- empathy assessment; Emotions -- Periodicals; Emotions -- Research -- Periodicals; 152.4
• DOI: 10.1177/1754073914558466
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1754-0739

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.