Empathy vs. Sympathy

Front

What is the definition of empathy?

Back

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, putting oneself in their shoes.

Front

What is the definition of sympathy?

Back

Sympathy is the feeling of pity or sorrow for someone else's misfortune, often accompanied by a desire to help.

Front

How does empathy differ from sympathy?

Back

Empathy involves sharing and understanding another's feelings, while sympathy involves feeling pity for someone else's situation.

Front

Provide an example of empathy in a social situation.

Back

An example of empathy is when a friend listens to you talk about your problems and expresses understanding of your feelings.

Front

Provide an example of sympathy in a social situation.

Back

An example of sympathy is when someone hears about a friend's loss and expresses condolences without fully understanding their feelings.

Front

What role does active listening play in demonstrating empathy?

Back

Active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the other person is saying, which helps in demonstrating empathy.

Front

What are some common misconceptions about empathy?

Back

Common misconceptions include thinking that empathy means feeling sorry for someone or that it requires personal experience with the situation.

Front

How can empathy improve interpersonal relationships?

Back

Empathy can improve relationships by fostering deeper connections, trust, and understanding between individuals.

Front

What are the emotional responses associated with sympathy?

Back

Emotional responses associated with sympathy often include feelings of pity, concern, and a desire to help or comfort.

Front

In what situations might sympathy be more appropriate than empathy?

Back

Sympathy may be more appropriate in situations where the person offering support does not have the capacity to fully understand the other's feelings.