What is the definition of empathy in psychological terms?

Empathy in psychological terms is defined as the capacity to understand and share another person's emotions. This involves both cognitive and emotional components: the cognitive aspect allows individuals to recognize or comprehend what someone else is feeling, while the emotional aspect involves sharing or resonating with those emotions.

In practice, empathy can manifest in various social interactions, enhancing relationships by fostering deeper connections and enhancing emotional support. It plays a crucial role in communication, conflict resolution, and nurturing compassionate responses to others.

The other definitions provided do not capture the full essence of empathy. For instance, the ability to perceive one's own feelings accurately relates more to self-awareness rather than understanding others. Emotional detachment suggests a lack of connection, which is the opposite of what empathy entails. Finally, while the instinct to care for those in distress may overlap with empathetic responses, it does not encompass the broader cognitive understanding that empathy involves.