Researchers have unveiled insights into the relationship between brain structure and the two types of empathy: emotional and cognitive. According to Dr. Robert Eres, who led the study, emotional empathy—the ability to feel and share another's emotions—can be observed in individuals who may become very emotional while watching a film. In contrast, cognitive empathy, which involves understanding another person's feelings intellectually, is often seen in rational individuals, such as clinical psychologists.
The study analyzed brain scans of 176 participants, revealing that those with higher emotional empathy had denser gray matter in the insula region of the brain. Conversely, individuals exhibiting cognitive empathy showed increased gray matter in the midcingulate cortex.
The findings suggest a correlation between emotional and rational dispositions and specific neural structures. Emotional empathy allows individuals to resonate with others' feelings, while cognitive empathy enables them to understand those feelings without necessarily experiencing them. Both types are essential for effective communication and relationships.
Some researchers believe that empathy can be developed through training and practice, with methods such as meditation, physical activity, and volunteer work. Spending quality time with family and friends, resolving conflicts, and self-improvement efforts can all contribute to fostering greater love and understanding towards others.