Social empathy: A model built on empathy, contextual understanding, and social responsibility that promotes social justice

Elizabeth Segal

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

154 Scopus citations

Abstract

A model of social empathy is described where social empathy is defined as the ability to more deeply understand people by perceiving or experiencing their life situations and as a result gain insight into structural inequalities and disparities. The three components of the model-individual empathy, contextual understanding, and social responsibility-are explored and explained. Social empathy provides a framework for more effective social policies that address disparities and support social and economic justice for all people. Social workers are well positioned to enhance social empathy, and application and suggestions for further enhancement and research are provided.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)266-277
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Social Service Research
Volume37
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2011

Keywords

  • Civic involvement
  • Empathy
  • Scapegoating
  • Social empathy
  • Social responsibility

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
  • Sociology and Political Science

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