Understanding Others by Understanding the Self: Neurobiological Models of Empathy and their Relevance to Personality Disorders.

Abstract

Introduction: The ability to accurately infer the thoughts, intentions and emotional states of others has often been associated with the concept of empathy. De.cits in this ability are common in those with personality disorders.

Method: Current neurocognitive models of empathy-related abilities and the biological research to support them are discussed.

Results: There is evidence that observing the actions of others activates regions of the observer's brain involved in executing the analogous action. It is proposed this motor resonance is used to cortically simulate observed movements. Simulation may permit access to the thoughts and emotions of the observer when they make a similar action. This information could then be used to infer the intentions of the observed person.

Conclusion: The relevance of these models to clinical aspects of personality disorders is discussed.