FACETS OF EMPATHY

This paper examines the relationship between the multi-dimensional model of Empathy proposed by Davis and the uni-dimensional model proposed by Eysenck and Eysenck (Psychologists Report, 43, 1247-1255, 1978). Factor analysis of joint item pool suggested the presence of five conceptually distinct and largely uncorrelated dimensions of empathy comprising: Perspective-Taking, Empathic Concern, Identification with Fictional Characters, Empathic Distress and Emotional Response Matching. The Eysenck and Eysenck conception of empathy related primarily to the Emotional Response Matching factor while the Davis items related to the other factors. It is proposed that research into empathy should employ this more comprehensive, five factor, framework and that both inventories would be needed together to operationalize it.