The Effect of Inducing Empathy on Negative Emotions and Forgiveness

At present, there is a wealth of research that has established the negative effects and correlates of bullying, including, but not limited to, an increase in negative emotions. Negative emotions include hurt, anger, and sadness. As such, research has shifted to examine interventions and protective factors that might mitigate those negative effects. Empathy and forgiveness have been identified as protective factors associated with decreased negative emotions. However, little is known about the possible effects of inducing empathy on early adolescents’ negative emotions and willingness to forgive in situations involving relational aggression (RA). The purpose of the current study was to examine the effect of empathy on negative emotions and willingness to forgive. Results showed that participants report lower levels of negative emotions, specifically hurt, anger and sadness after the empathy induction. Those with a history of RA showed even lower levels of negative emotions and higher willingness to forgive when compared to students without RA history. These findings expand on existing literature.