Work

A Laboratory Evaluation of the Effects of Empathy Training on Racial Bias

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effects of behavioral procedures, including relational training and multiple exemplar training on empathic responding of individuals who display racial bias. In particular, this study used a multielement design with five adult participants to evaluate whether the presentation of relational frames of coordination and distinction between the participants’ values and the values of a person belonging to a group for which a bias existed altered empathic responses toward people belonging to such groups. The results showed empathic responding was higher when relational frames of coordination were presented and lower when relational frames of distinction were presented. This study provides preliminary data suggesting that relational training may result in altered patterns of empathic responses toward people belonging to different racial groups for which a bias previously was observed.

Source: The Psychological Record

DOI: 10.1007/s40732-024-00606-z

Authors: Victoria D. Suarez, Adel C. Najdowski, Angela Persicke, Jonathan Tarbox

Institutions: Endicott College, Pepperdine University, University of Southern California

Language: English

Topic: Social and Intergroup Psychology

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,990