The development of empathy in male schizophrenics

Summary

The development of empathy in schizophrenics depends on the ability of the therapist to relate empathically toward the patient and on getting the latter to accept this relationship. The patient's ability to participate emotionally is traced through stages of testing, then accepting, empathy from the therapist, and finally reacting in kind. This empathy was directed only toward therapists, although a gain in self-assertion and increased cognizance of other patients was evident. Empathy for other patients was not observed. Patients did project their own feelings on other patients rather than participate intimately in exploring and interpreting the other persons' feelings. The significance of these findings is discussed, and further study of the meaning, role and destiny of empathy in schizophrenia is contemplated.