The relationship between self-compassion and empathy : a critical review

Abstract

It is proposed that self-compassion mitigates the negative effects of empathy and alleviates compassion fatigue and burnout in healthcare professionals (HCPs). However, there is concern that self-compassion may diminish our ability to empathize and care for others. The present critical review looks at the literature examining the relationship between self-compassion and empathy to determine if self-compassion promotes or impedes the development of empathy for others. Searches were conducted on Google Scholar and the PSYCinfo database and 13 articles were found that met the inclusion criteria (12 cross-sectional studies and 1 quasi-experiment). Self-compassion appears to be associated with (a) greater cognitive empathy and (b) reduced personal distress or negative vicarious affect. This critical review summarises evidence regarding the self-compassion-empathy relationship. RCTs examining self-compassion and empathy should be piloted to confirm the benefits of self-compassion in regard to empathy and ultimately professional quality of life and well-being in HCPs. If found effective, the inclusion of a self-compassion training course in the HCP curriculum is recommended.