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Introduction

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Abstract

The Introduction outlines the complexity of empathy. It describes the centrality of empathy in patient care and the doctor–patient relationship. The empathy gap in teaching and clinical practice is discussed. The widely reported decline in medical students’ empathy is examined. The research approach is described and the audience for the book considered. The motivation for carrying out the study is discussed. The chapter concludes with an overview of the book and lists the key research questions.

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Correspondence to David Ian Jeffrey .

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Jeffrey, D.I. (2019). Introduction. In: Exploring Empathy with Medical Students. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11211-0_1

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