Analyzing the Sources of Drawbacks of Empathy

Abstract Book of the 10th International Conference on New Trends in Teaching and Education

Year: 2026

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Analyzing the Sources of Drawbacks of Empathy

Reyhaneh Mahmoudabadi, Engin Baysen, Gizem Öneri Uzun

ABSTRACT:

Interpersonal relationships are essential for human cognitive and social development, as well as survival, as the attachments formed in them provide opportunities for socialization, learning, and security. Developing a healthy sense of connection is of great importance. Empathy, a key dimension of relationships, can be problematic, as it carries certain negative aspects. The present study investigates the sources of drawbacks associated with empathy using a qualitative method. Sixty students (both male and female) from universities in North Cyprus participated in this study. The study employed narrative methods to explore the sources of empathy’s drawbacks. This research showed that sources of drawbacks were categorized into four groups: biographical features, misunderstanding, a person’s attitude towards awareness and cognition, and a person’s mental and emotional state. These results indicate that empathy is crucial for building healthy interpersonal relationships; however, an imbalance between cognitive and emotional empathy can result in emotional and social challenges. This research aims to highlight drawbacks to promote understanding and empathy in interpersonal relationships and addresses a gap in the literature. By identifying these sources, the present research hopes to enhance the effective use of empathy and to guide future research. while clarifying the limitations associated with this field of study and the need for further investigation.

Keywords: Drawbacks; Empathy; Healthy Social Life; Interpersonal Relationships; Narrative Inquiry