A Historical Definition of Empathy from the Perspective of Philosophy, Psychology & Neuroscience

This book is unique because it promotes empathy as the foundation of all

therapeutic interactions and teaches how to be empathetic. The chosen methodology for

this book is Phenomenology. The key method for data collection are narratives and the

underlying theoretical premise for data analysis is the ethic of care. The important

association between the ethic of care and empathy is explained. The concept of

empathy is historically explored from a philosophical, psychological, and Social

Neuroscience perspective. Terms that are closely aligned with empathy, such as

benevolence and compassion, are carefully delineated. Positive Psychology is

introduced as a new and crucial focus that emphasizes positive emotions. It is pointed

out that whereas traditional empathy is primarily focused on the identification with

troubling feelings with the goal of helping people feel better, positive empathy is a

therapeutic response that emphasizes emotions like joy and contentment. Emotional

intelligence or the ability to read others’ feelings is deemed necessary for empathy. The

intelligence quotient (IQ) and emotional quotient (EQ) are both essential for success. In

the Case in Point, subjective perceptions of empathy in practice are shared by different

helping professionals. A closing simulation exercise focuses on practicing active

listening, reflection and nonverbal cues, followed by mock scenarios on how to tell the

difference between sympathy and empathy.

Cite as

CULTIVATING EMPATHY: Inspiring Health Professionals to Communicate More Effectively

Cultural Competence In Assessment And Intervention With Ethnic Minorities: Some Perspectives From Psychology and Social Work

Outcomes Assessment in End - Stage Kidney Disease - Measurements and Applications in Clinical Practice

The Ethic of Care: a moral compass for Canadian nursing practice

The Ethic of Care: A Moral Compass for Canadian Nursing Practice (Revised Edition)

Cultivating Empathy: Inspiring Health Professionals to Communicate More Effectively (Revised Edition)