The Research Desk
Scientists at the Catholic University of Valencia found that focusing attention on oneself or others increases empathy compared to no focus.
Attentional Focus, Empathy and Gratitude: An Experimental Analysis.
- Relationships
- Gratitude
Villodre-Marchal, E., Mayoral, S., Bernabé-Valero, M.
In plain language
This study investigates how focusing attention either on others or oneself can influence empathy, a crucial aspect of social connection and well-being. Researchers worked with 198 undergraduate students to see if these attentional orientations affected empathy during a cooperative task. They also examined if a person's general tendency to feel grateful, particularly in difficult situations, influenced this effect.
The findings indicate that both focusing on others and on oneself can increase empathy compared to not focusing attention, though they don't differ from each other. Interestingly, those who generally express gratitude were less likely to respond empathetically in this setting, suggesting a complex relationship between gratitude and empathy.
Key findings
- Both self-focused and other-focused attention increased empathy compared to no specific focus.
- There was no significant difference in empathy between self-focused and other-focused attention.
- Higher general gratitude was linked to lower empathy in this context.
- Gratitude in challenging situations interacted with attentional focus but did not significantly change empathy levels.
Why it matters
This research highlights how shifting our focus of attention can enhance empathy, an essential component of healthy relationships and social well-being.
Try this today
To foster empathy, try deliberately focusing your attention on others or your own experiences during interactions. This simple shift in perspective could enhance your ability to connect with others.