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The phases and focus of empathy
1Murdoch University, Australia.
The British Journal of Medical Psychology
|March 1, 1993
Summary
This study refines interpersonal empathy into three distinct phases: reception, expression, and received understanding. Empathic responses can extend to relationships, not just individual experiences, highlighting the multifaceted nature of empathy.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Sciences
Background:
- Interpersonal empathy is a complex phenomenon.
- Existing models of empathy can be systematically investigated.
- This paper builds upon the author's prior work on empathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To refine the author's account of empathy as a sequential process.
- To introduce the concept of empathic response to relationships as emergent wholes.
- To distinguish three main phases in a complete empathic process.
Main Methods:
- Systematic portrayal and investigation of interpersonal empathy.
- Refinement of a phased model of empathy.
- Distinguishing phases based on preconditions for empathy.
Main Results:
- Empathy involves three distinct phases: reception/resonation, expressive communication, and received empathy.
- Empathic response can be directed towards individual experiences and relationships.
- Phases are semi-autonomous and do not occur in a strict lock-step sequence.
- Empathic processes for individual experience and relationships share a similar phasic structure.
Conclusions:
- Individual selves are one form of human life; relationships, families, and communities are others.
- Empathy extends to recognizing the individuality and felt presence of relationships.
- A comprehensive understanding of empathy requires considering both individual and relational dimensions.