empathy in psychology

Empathy in psychology refers to the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It involves recognizing emotions in others and responding with care and compassion. There are two main types: cognitive empathy, which is understanding someone’s thoughts and feelings, and affective empathy, which is sharing in their emotional experiences. Empathy is crucial for healthy relationships, as it fosters connection and communication. It helps us respond sensitively in social situations and can motivate supportive actions towards others, enhancing our sense of community and reducing conflict.