Loading...
Empathy gap is a cognitive bias where individuals tend to underestimate the influence of emotional states on their own and others' decision-making and behavior. This bias highlights the difficulty humans face in predicting behaviors and preferences in different states of mind, most notably between emotional and rational states.
The empathy gap occurs when there's a disconnection between an individual's current state and another state, leading to a misunderstanding of the motivations and emotions driving actions. This gap is particularly pronounced when evaluating decisions made in a 'hot' emotional state while currently in a 'cold' rational state, or vice versa. Consequently, individuals find it challenging to anticipate how they might feel or act under different circumstances, often ignoring emotional and visceral factors.
The empathy gap can lead to poor decision-making, a lack of preparation for future emotional states, misunderstanding and underestimating others' actions and motivations. Relationships, both personal and professional, can be strained due to misinterpretations of intentions and feelings.
Awareness of one's own potential biases can help mitigate empathy gaps. Practicing empathy, actively considering emotional contexts, and simulating different emotional states can improve understanding. Techniques such as mindfulness and scenario-based thinking can also aid in bridging this gap.
Some critics argue that while empathy gaps exist, they are not solely responsible for poor decision making. Other biases and environmental factors also play significant roles, and individuals may over-rely on empathy gap theories for explanations of complex human behaviors.
Out of control: Visceral influences on behavior
Loewenstein, G. (1996)
Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes
Wouldn't it be nice? Predicting future feelings
Loewenstein, G., & Schkade, D. (1999)