Sympathy, Empathy, and Compassion: How do they differ and which one do people prefer?

Sympathy, empathy, and compassion are words that have not only remained largely uncontested in society but are often used synonymously. In this illustrated video you will learn the important differences between these three forms of care and which one is most impactful to those that you interact with. Learn about the power and enduring impact of compassion for the benefit of those you come in contact with and yourself.

After a decade of research with individuals, ranging in age from 8 to 92, who are all too familiar with the debilitating effects of suffering and the transforming power of compassion, we have learned some important differences.

As illustrated in this animated video, sympathy is a pity-based response to a distressing situation that is characterized by a lack of relational understanding and the self-preservation of the observer--it goes nowhere and does nothing for the person in suffering. Empathy, involves the ability to put oneself in another person’s shoes, to not only acknowledge suffering but to feel with the person and attempt to understand them in the process--an upgrade from sympathy but not without limitations--including being fairly conditional.

Compassion, takes empathy to the next level, by not simply 'doing unto others as you would have them do unto you' but 'doing unto others as the would want done unto themselves'. Most importantly, unlike sympathy or empathy, compassion requires action--compassion involves not simply observing and feeling for the person in suffering but taking action to alleviate a persons suffering.

[EatPlantations]

Nice breakdown and definitions. I've found that too many people are quick to judge even in their attempts at "empathy", many have trouble with true empathy. There are few who are good at trying to empathize, but most people are just wanting to judge or give quick solutions. This is often challenging for the one that is suffering.

[bushrarasheed]

What I've percieved is that sympathy generates negative feelings, emapthy fells us a little better but still without any support. However, compassion is appropriately a required treatment to the suffering of a person, either physical, mental or emtional diseases and calamities. Thanks 😊

[yijijeong]

This is what exactly defines compassion that I should keep and improve. Thank you for your dedication to the research about compassion.

[srividyabadrinarayanan]

perfect crystal clear explanation of the differences between all three. Great job!

[ReinoudvanReekumナウト]

I had this conclusion myself, but was never sure. This video confirms it and gives it a little bit extra with clarity. Thank you very much for this insight.

[margaretarossyyy]

Just the perfect explanation and example that I need! thank you for the info, I'll definitely looking forward for your contents :)

[utahimelaurant]

this video made me cryad I don't know why ...

[poiitlj]

Thank you for this explanation. It clarifies the three words.

[Overtonl]

I’ve found people don’t possess any of it. When you get treated like an object rather than a human being, you come to understand this. It can definitely make you lose your own if you allow it.

[mindfulnessasia]

By developing some spiritual awareness and appreciation, we can begin to feel others. It is so important that we try to see what we have in common with others, and not always notice some differences. As I begin to experience a commonality with others, one will automatically a sadness for the suffering of all other beings. Bodily identity divides people. With spiritual vision we see the true equality of all living beings. We see that we are all in the same situation, the experience of temporary happiness and distress in this world. That we are all longing for the same type of joy, peace, purpose.

[whatever-gvot]

I think I have realised now, that I have often been empathetic, but rarely compassionate, when someone needed my help. Think I am going to change that

[talktokaren]

This is a wonderful video on how to teach kids in these situations! THANK U

[francis_clavel]

Thank you for the video, it's really well made :)

[godamo]

I feel like we dont always "try". It can come natural!

[mckennalynn]

So it seems to mean that
Sympathy is lowest it's pity feeling sorry for someone not doing much to help them, but more to just help yourself by saying your sorry.
Empathy is the second one because it helps others by you putting yourself in there shoes and making them feel validated, but that's it.
Compassion is the highest. No sympathy, by the actions you take to help them your showing empathy without having to say anything.

Would have been nice to learn this in school!

[circletimeauntiekeneisha]

i love this sad you don't have more subcriber

[allandm]

Can we all show more compassion towards animals? I don't get why seemingly compassionate people are fine with confining, mutilating and killing pigs for meat cuz 'it tastes good'. Especially when we have so many plant foods available.

[lrowe]

Sometimes I feel like I am not be heard .

[Yella_Light_TV]

The kind cat and the lost kitten-Amazon

[isabellechauvin]

Existe t'il une version traduite en français ??
Merci