Empathy, Sympathy, and Pity: 21st-Century Definitions and Implications for Practice and Research

ABSTRACT

Empathy is prominent wherever humans attempt to create more just and compassionate social structures, and cultivating empathy is critical to being an effective social worker. This article outlines the historical semantic evolution of empathy, sympathy, and pity. Careful attention needs to be given to avoid conflating these concepts. If used improperly, the results can range from counterproductive outreach efforts to emotional and physical burnout. Clear and precise definitions of the three terms are provided and incorporate concepts taken from 21st-century social-cognitive neuroscience. This epistemological foundation can help to better define this concept to facilitate research and avoid biased emotional reactions. Implications for future social work practice and research are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Empathy
• sympathy
• pity
• perspective taking
• mirror neurons
• self/other-awareness
• emotion regulation