The 3 Types of Empathy

Worksheet Description

This Empathy worksheet delves into the complex nature of one of humanity’s most profound emotions, empathy, which is the capacity to understand and share the feelings of another. It provides a detailed explanation of the three distinct types of empathy: Cognitive, Emotional, and Compassionate.

Cognitive Empathy is described as the intellectual process that allows one to grasp the perspective and feelings of others without necessarily sharing their emotions. It’s the ability to be objective and rational about someone else’s situation. Emotional Empathy, on the other hand, involves sharing the emotional experience of another, feeling what they feel almost as if the emotions were contagious. This deep connection to another’s feelings can be both heartwarming and challenging.

The worksheet further explains Compassionate Empathy, which acts as a bridge between understanding feelings and taking action based on that understanding. It emphasizes the importance of not only recognizing and sharing the feelings of others but also responding with kindness and support. This form of empathy is actionable, often motivating individuals to help or comfort others in need. The sheet includes an engaging graphic of a cartoon character, symbolizing the concept of empathy with open arms and a warm smile, inviting students to explore the nuances of empathic responses and the positive impact they have on interpersonal relationships.