The double empathy problem: A derivation chain analysis and cautionary note

Area of Science:

• Psychological Science
• Autism Research
• Social Cognition

Background:

• The "double empathy problem" (DEP) is increasingly studied, particularly in autism research.
• Existing DEP research has potential but suffers from conceptual weaknesses.
• It is often conflated with other psychological constructs, leading to the "jingle-jangle" fallacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the conceptualization of the DEP in psychological science.
• To highlight the "jingle-jangle" fallacy within DEP research.
• To propose a path toward more robust research on atypical social cognition.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and conceptual analysis of "double empathy problem" research.
• Examination of construct conflation in social cognition studies.
• Synthesis proposal with cognitive neuroscience of social interaction.

Main Results:

• The DEP is poorly conceptualized and conflated with numerous other constructs.
• This conceptual ambiguity hinders the translation of theoretical claims into empirical evidence.
• Weak derivation chains impede robust scientific understanding of social processes.

Conclusions:

• DEP research requires significant conceptual refinement and a stronger link to cognitive neuroscience.
• Strengthening the derivation chain is essential for advancing the study of (a)typical social cognition.
• Caution is advised regarding the application of current DEP findings in clinical practice until conceptual issues are resolved.