The Power of Double Empathy: Understanding and Connecting Beyond Differences

11 July

By Kate Calway

In a world marked by diverse backgrounds, experiences, and communication styles, it is crucial that we embrace empathy as a two-way street. The Double Empathy Problem is a concept in psychology that challenges the traditional assumptions about empathy deficits in Autistic individuals. It was first coined by Damian Milton, an Autistic Autism researcher, in 2012. It urges us to consider that understanding and connection can only be achieved when both parties make an effort to bridge the gap.

For far too long, society has subscribed to the misconception that Autistic individuals struggle solely with empathy and social interactions. However, emerging research contests this. The Double Empathy concept emphasises that difficulties in understanding and connecting with others can arise due to a mismatch in communication or cultural styles.

One example of the impact of cultural differences on understanding and connection is the variance in cultural customs surrounding eye contact. In Western cultures, direct eye contact is often seen as a sign of attentiveness, respect, and engagement in conversation. However, in some Eastern cultures, prolonged or intense eye contact may be considered disrespectful or intrusive.

Imagine a scenario where an individual from a Western culture engages in conversation with someone from an Eastern culture. The Western individual might interpret the lack of eye contact from the Eastern individual as disinterest or dishonesty, while the Eastern individual may feel uncomfortable or even intimidated by the prolonged eye contact of the Western individual. Much like how Eastern cultures don't value eye contact, many Autistic people describe eye contact as painful and prefer to reduce eye contact as a way to attend to conversation better. In this situation, a mutual understanding of the cultural customs surrounding eye contact becomes essential for fostering connection and empathy.

The example of cultural customs and eye contact highlights how differences in communication styles can impact understanding and connection between individuals. It challenges us to consider that what may seem like a universal social cue can vary greatly across cultures. By acknowledging and respecting these differences, we can cultivate a deeper level of empathy and appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives.

As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, it becomes vital to approach interactions with curiosity, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn from one another. By actively seeking to understand and adapt to different cultural customs, we not only bridge the empathy gap but also foster a sense of inclusivity and respect for diverse ways of being.

The concept of Double Empathy encourages us to recognise that understanding and connection go beyond the surface-level assumptions we often make. By considering the impact of cultural customs, we expand our understanding of empathy as a two-way street. By celebrating our differences while also striving to connect beyond them, we pave the way for a more empathetic and harmonious world.