Northampton Electronic Collection of Theses and Research

Empathy: A Review of the Concept

Cuff, B., Brown, S., Taylor, L. and Howat, D. (2016) Empathy: A Review of the Concept. Emotion Review. 8(2), pp. 144-153. 1754-0739.

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17038:35995
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Cuff_etal_ER_2014_Empathy_a_review_of_the_concept
Cuff_etal_ER_2014_Empathy_a_review_of_the_concept.pdf - Accepted Version
Information
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.
Creators:
Cuff, B., Brown, S., Taylor, L. and Howat, D.
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:
Faculties > Faculty of Health & Society > Psychology
Research Centres > Centre for Psychology and Social Sciences
Date:
1 April 2016
Date Type:
Publication
Page Range:
pp. 144-153
Journal or Publication Title:
Emotion Review
Volume:
8
Number:
2
Language:
English
DOI:
10.1177/1754073914558466.
ISSN:
1754-0739
Status:
Published / Disseminated
Refereed:
Yes
Related URLs:
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