Behavioral manifestations and neural mechanisms of empathic pain

Abstract

Empathy is an important trait that allows individuals to comprehend and share the emotions and sentiments of others. It not only facilitates effective interpersonal communication, but also helps in establishing meaningful connections and fostering trust and understanding. Impaired empathy development can manifest as excessive self-centeredness, extreme egoism, and antisocial behaviors. Many psychiatric disorders, such as autism, narcissistic personality disorder, and schizophrenia, are often accompanied by empathy disorders. Pain empathy, which is a common behavioral paradigm of empathic behavior, is not only observed in humans but also in animals. By delving into the study of pain empathy, we can gain a deeper understanding of empathy itself. This understanding not only contributes to the advancement of scientific, clinical, and social fields, but also promotes the cultivation of emotional resonance and social harmony among humans, with profound significance and impact. This article provides a brief overview of the current understanding and mechanistic studies of pain empathy, as well as suggests future research directions.