What are empathy and theory of mind?
Empathy is present where a person is in a position to perceive the reactions and thoughts of other individuals who are experiencing stressful situations. One, therefore, gets to understand the feelings being experienced by another person. Theory of mind, on the other hand, basically entails an individual`s ability to distinguish between their own mind and that of other people. The mind is viewed as a conceptual system comprising of a network of interrelated concepts. For example, a nurse can observe a distraught patient and be in a position to discern that they are experiencing excruciating pain by simply observing their behavior.
According to the articles, how does reading literature help us develop a theory of mind and empathy?
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Reading literature enables one to acquire different reasoning based on the concept of theory of mind and empathy. Every scenario presented is distinguished in the manner offered. Also, reading manages to offer a person the relevant vocabulary required in order for them to communicate their feelings to those around them. Further still, the reader manages to place themselves in the characters` shoes hence succeeding in heightening their empathy levels (Mercer & Reynolds, 2002). In addition to this, the fictitious appearance of the reading manages to create a scenario where a person can express their emotions freely and later on manage to utilize them in reality.
How might the deeper capability for empathy derived from reading help you in your nursing career?
The capability posed by empathy is capable of assisting me in my nursing career by making it possible to understand how best to control such emotions. Moreover, through the various lessons learnt, it is now possible for me to understand the various elements that manage to elicit empathy within my system. It is further possible for me to identify situations that necessitate sympathetic reactions. By comprehending the essence of empathy and also identifying scenarios where such reactions occur, it is likely that I can manage to understand their occurrence and also how best to respond to such situations. As a result, it will now be possible for me to offer specialized attention and care to patients.
Reference
Mercer, S. W., & Reynolds, W. J. (2002). Empathy and quality of care. Br J Gen Pract , 52 (Suppl), S9-12.
