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Empathy: A review of the concept
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Empathy: A review of the concept

Benjamin M P Cuff, Sarah J Brown, Laura Taylor and Douglas J Howat
Emotion Review, Vol.8(2), pp.144-153
2016
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1754073914558466
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https://doi.org/10.1177/1754073914558466View
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Abstract

affective empathy cognitive empathy definition empathy empathy assessment
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.

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Psychology, Multidisciplinary
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