The terms empathy and sympathy may be used in day-to-day language synonymously. However, these two words have subtle differences in their definitions. It is important that you are aware of these differences so that you can confidently use these words, correctly in your answers. Admission tutors are looking to select students who have a high emotional intelligence and are able to relate to others. In order for interview success, you must not only understand the meanings of sympathy and empathy but have an awareness of how to demonstrate empathy and its importance in healthcare.
In a nut shell, sympathy is about showing care or concern to someone else whereas empathy is about sharing someone else’s emotions. The terms sympathy and empathy are derived from the Greek, differences between their derivatives help us to understand why the terms are not synonymous. Sympathy is derived from the 2 words “syn” and “pathos” which translates to “with feeling”. In contrast the noun empathy derives from “em”, “pathos” translating to “in feeling”. From this we can understand that sympathy is a natural passive emotion whereas empathy requires a greater level of emotional engagement. Empathy is a skill that must be developed and applied. Consider empathy as a multiphase process where you must not only be aware of the concerns of others but adjust your reactions and actions to show compassion and a positive intent to help the individual.