empathy essay prompts

Essays About Empathy: Top 5 Examples Plus Prompts

If you’re writing essays about empathy, check out our essay examples and prompts to get started.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share other people’s emotions. It is the very notion which To Kill a Mockingbird character Atticus Finch was driving at when he advised his daughter Scout to “climb inside [other people’s] skin and walk around in it.”

Being able to feel the joy and sorrow of others and see the world from their perspective are extraordinary human capabilities that shape our social landscape. But beyond its effect on personal and professional relationships, empathy motivates kind actions that can trickle positive change across society.

If you are writing an article about empathy, here are five insightful essay examples to inspire you:

1. Do Art and Literature Cultivate Empathy? by Nick Haslam

2. empathy: overrated by spencer kornhaber, 3. in our pandemic era, why we must teach our children compassion by rebecca roland, 4. why empathy is a must-have business strategy by belinda parmar, 5. the evolution of empathy by frans de waal, 1. teaching empathy in the classroom., 2. how can companies nurture empathy in the workplace, 3. how can we develop empathy, 4. how do you know if someone is empathetic, 5. does empathy spark helpful behavior , 6. empathy vs. sympathy., 7. empathy as a winning strategy in sports. , 8. is there a decline in human empathy, 9. is digital media affecting human empathy, 10. your personal story of empathy..

“Exposure to literature and the sorts of movies that do not involve car chases might nurture our capacity to get inside the skins of other people. Alternatively, people who already have well-developed empathic abilities might simply find the arts more engaging…”

Haslam, a psychology professor, laid down several studies to present his thoughts and analysis on the connection between empathy and art. While one study has shown that literary fiction can help develop empathy, there’s still lacking evidence to show that more exposure to art and literature can help one be more empathetic. You can also check out these essays about character .

“Empathy doesn’t even necessarily make day-to-day life more pleasant, they contend, citing research that shows a person’s empathy level has little or no correlation with kindness or giving to charity.”

This article takes off from a talk of psychology experts on a crusade against empathy. The experts argue that empathy could be “innumerate, parochial, bigoted” as it zooms one to focus on an individual’s emotions and fail to see the larger picture. This problem with empathy can motivate aggression and wars and, as such, must be replaced with a much more innate trait among humans: compassion.

“Showing empathy can be especially hard for kids… Especially in times of stress and upset, they may retreat to focusing more on themselves — as do we adults.”

Roland encourages fellow parents to teach their kids empathy, especially amid the pandemic, where kindness is needed the most. She advises parents to seize everyday opportunities by ensuring “quality conversations” and reinforcing their kids to view situations through other people’s lenses.

“Mental health, stress and burnout are now perceived as responsibilities of the organization. The failure to deploy empathy means less innovation, lower engagement and reduced loyalty, as well as diluting your diversity agenda.”

The spike in anxiety disorders and mental health illnesses brought by the COVID-19 pandemic has given organizations a more considerable responsibility: to listen to employees’ needs sincerely. Parmar underscores how crucial it is for a leader to take empathy as a fundamental business strategy and provides tips on how businesses can adjust to the new norm.

“The evolution of empathy runs from shared emotions and intentions between individuals to a greater self/other distinction—that is, an “unblurring” of the lines between individuals.”

The author traces the evolutionary roots of empathy back to our primate heritage — ultimately stemming from the parental instinct common to mammals. Ultimately, the author encourages readers to conquer “tribal differences” and continue turning to their emotions and empathy when making moral decisions.

10 Interesting Writing prompts on Essays About Empathy

Check out below our list of exciting prompts to help you buckle down to your writing:

This essay discuss teaching empathy in the classroom. Is this an essential skill that we should learn in school? Research how schools cultivate children’s innate empathy and compassion. Then, based on these schools’ experiences, provide tips on how other schools can follow suit.

An empathetic leader is said to help boost positive communication with employees, retain indispensable talent and create positive long-term outcomes. This is an interesting topic to research, and there are plenty of studies on this topic online with data that you can use in your essay. So, pick these best practices to promote workplace empathy and discuss their effectiveness.

Essays About Empathy: How can we develop empathy?

Write down a list of deeds and activities people can take as their first steps to developing empathy. These activities can range from volunteering in their communities to reaching out to a friend in need simply. Then, explain how each of these acts can foster empathy and kindness.

Based on studies, list the most common traits, preferences, and behaviour of an empathetic person. For example, one study has shown that empathetic people prefer non-violent movies. Expound on this list with the support of existing studies. You can support or challenge these findings in this essay for a compelling argumentative essay. Make sure to conduct your research and cite all the sources used.

Empathy is a buzzword closely associated with being kind and helpful. However, many experts in recent years have been opining that it takes more than empathy to propel an act of kindness and that misplaced empathy can even lead to apathy. Gather what psychologists and emotional experts have been saying on this debate and input your analysis.

Empathy and sympathy have been used synonymously, even as these words differ in meaning. Enlighten your readers on the differences and provide situations that clearly show the contrast between empathy and sympathy. You may also add your take on which trait is better to cultivate.

Empathy has been deemed vital in building cooperation. A member who empathizes with the team can be better in tune with the team’s goals, cooperate effectively and help drive success. You may research how athletic teams foster a culture of empathy beyond the sports fields. Write about how coaches are integrating empathy into their coaching strategy.

Several studies have warned that empathy has been on a downward trend over the years. Dive deep into studies that investigate this decline. Summarize each and find common points. Then, cite the significant causes and recommendations in this study. You can also provide insights on whether this should cause alarm and how societies should address the problem.

There is a broad sentiment that social media has been driving people to live in a bubble and be less empathetic — more narcissistic. However, some point out that intensifying competition and increasing economic pressures are more to blame for reducing our empathetic feelings. Research and write about what experts have to say and provide a personal touch by adding your experience.

Acts of kindness abound every day. But sometimes, we fail to capture or take them for granted. Write about your unforgettable encounters with empathetic people. Then, create a storytelling essay to convey your personal view on empathy. This activity can help you appreciate better the little good things in life.

Check out our general resource of essay writing topics and stimulate your creative mind!

See our round-up of the best essay checkers to ensure your writing is error-free.

Yna Lim is a communications specialist currently focused on policy advocacy. In her eight years of writing, she has been exposed to a variety of topics, including cryptocurrency, web hosting, agriculture, marketing, intellectual property, data privacy and international trade. A former journalist in one of the top business papers in the Philippines, Yna is currently pursuing her master's degree in economics and business.

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43 Writing Prompts about Empathy

Empathy and kindness are things that we desperately need to teach our kids to help them become well-adjusted, functioning members of society as adults.

This can be a difficult and frustrating struggle for parents and teachers alike.

The following writing prompts help with empathetic understanding and compassionate responses.

Hopefully, we can help kids care about one another and ensure they don’t let their emotions get the best of them.

Using the Prompts:

These might be used as the whiteboard question of the day occasionally, and then followed up with discussion.

You might assign them based on your observances of your students.

Or you could send them home to work with their parents so the whole family is involved.

The Prompts:

Write about a fight you had with someone from the other person’s perspective.
Write a story about being respectful, even if you don’t agree with someone.
How do you respect someone if you disagree?
Make up a story about someone who is sad, and how the people they are around help them.
What does it mean to have courage? How does courage help others around you?
Write a story about someone who judges other people and how that causes problems for them.
Describe how you show you care about others.
Describe a character from a book being critical of others and fixing it.
Do you like it when other people are critical of you? How do you feel? What can you do to prevent acting that way yourself?
Write a story about what happens when you forget to be kind.
Write a story from the perspective of someone who doesn’t care about others, but then learns to eventually.
Why is it important to be kind? How are you kind?
Why is it so hard to forgive someone? Write a story about it.
How important is it to be honest, even if it hurts someone’s feelings? How do you balance the two things?
Rewrite a story you like, but put yourself in the main characters shoes and describe how you feel.
Does it make you happy to make others happy? Why?
Why is caring for other’s feelings important?
What is the best part about being kind to others? Why?
Write a story where the main character is the most considerate person in the world.
Can you write about a time when someone’s feelings were hurt? What did you learn from it?
Write a story where the main character benefits from the kindness of another.
What happens when we forget to be kind? How do you feel when it happens to you?
What do you do when you see someone else being mean to another person? What do you do?
What does it feel like when you’re mean?
What do you feel like when someone is mean to you?
What do you think your parents feel like when you do something that hurts their feelings? Write a story from their point of view.
What does it mean to have courage even when it is hard?
Define being empathetic in your own words. Do your best, there are no wrong answers.
Write a story about getting carried away and someone’s feelings being hurt. How does it resolve?
Write about someone going out of their way to help you.
Write a story about a person who has to learn to care about others.
What does it mean to take a walk in another person’s shoes? Why is understanding this important?
How do you show someone you care? Why do you show this?
Write a story about how swords can impact someone.
Do you know anyone who needs a friend? Why? What would you do to be their friend?
Can you rewrite a story so that the main character learns a lesson about kindness?
Write a story about an animal that has to learn to care for others.
Describe a time when you learned how easy it is to forget other people have feelings.
Can you tell about a time when you forgave someone who said something mean?
Write a story about a time when you had to ask for forgiveness.
Describe why forgiveness is important.
Can you identify when someone needs a kind word? Describe how.
What is your favorite way to make sure everyone is treated well?

When you Need More…

Empathy and kindness never go out of style.

If you need more prompts, many thousands of original resources are available on across our website.

Feel free to also share any resources you think we may have missed, or drop us a line with any suggestions you might have. We’re all ears!

24 Creative Writing Prompts about Empathy

Empathy – a profound word that encapsulates a universe of understanding, compassion, and human connection. In a world that often seems consumed by division, disarray, and digital detachment, the notion of empathy remains a beacon of hope , shining a light on what it truly means to be human.

Empathy isn’t merely about walking in another’s shoes; it’s about feeling the very sole of those shoes, recognizing the grit and the gravel, and understanding the journey that has led to where they stand. It’s about connecting with one another on an emotional and intellectual level that transcends mere words.

As writers, it is our duty, privilege, and challenge to explore and articulate this intricate web of human emotion .

Writing prompts about empathy are not just exercises; they are gateways to the soul, tools to uncover uncharted territories of the human psyche.

Join me as we embark on a literary exploration that will not only enrich your writing skills but will also deepen your connection with those around you and perhaps, most importantly, with yourself .

Welcome to the fascinating world of empathetic writing; let’s dive into the heart of what makes us human.

Writing Prompts about Empathy

Write about a time you witnessed someone struggling and how it made you feel. Describe the situation, focusing on the emotions and thoughts that went through your mind. Reflect on whether or not you were able to help, and how the experience may have changed or shaped your perspective on empathy and compassion.
Create a letter to a friend who is going through a difficult time. Explain what you know about their situation, and express your sincere sympathy and support. Focus on the emotional connection between you two and offer encouragement, making sure to use warm and understanding language .
Describe a moment when you felt truly understood by someone else. Consider the circumstances, the people involved, and the emotions that were present at the time. Reflect on how this experience affected your relationship with that person and how it may have deepened your understanding of empathy.
Imagine yourself in the shoes of someone living in extreme poverty . Detail the daily struggles they might face, from finding food to seeking shelter. Try to connect with the emotions and desperation that may come with such a life , and consider how it might change your perspective on your own life and the world around you.
Write a dialogue between two characters who have opposing viewpoints on a sensitive issue. Make sure to articulate each character’s perspective clearly and empathetically, without demonizing either side. Reflect on how empathy can be a tool for understanding and potentially finding common ground.
Compose a eulogy for a fictional character who has deeply impacted your life. Explain how this character has affected you, and describe their qualities and actions that have made them so meaningful. Emphasize the emotional connection you feel and how their story may have shaped your values and beliefs.
Write about an experience where you had to apologize and make amends. Detail the situation and the feelings of both parties involved. Focus on the process of recognizing your mistake, apologizing sincerely, and the healing that took place afterward. Consider how empathy played a role in the resolution.
Imagine a conversation with a loved one who has a chronic illness. Describe the dialogue, making sure to communicate both your support and your loved one’s feelings and frustrations. Reflect on the challenges that chronic illness can bring into a relationship and how empathy, understanding, and love can foster resilience and connection.
Describe a situation where you had to forgive someone who hurt you deeply. Explain the incident, your initial reaction, and the process of forgiveness. Reflect on the emotional journey and the role empathy played in allowing you to understand their actions and ultimately forgive.
Write a letter to your future self about a current struggle. Detail the emotions, challenges, and fears you’re experiencing right now. Address how you hope to overcome this obstacle and what you wish your future self to remember. Focus on self-compassion and empathy towards your own situation.
Imagine being a caregiver for an elderly family member. Describe the daily routine, the challenges faced, and the emotional toll it can take. Consider the empathy and patience required in this role, and reflect on how this responsibility might shape your understanding of aging and family.
Compose a story about a character who helps a community after a natural disaster . Detail their efforts, the community’s suffering, and the bonds formed through tragedy. Focus on the human connections made and how empathy drives individuals to support each other in times of crisis.
Write about a time when you felt out of place or misunderstood. Explain the situation, your feelings of isolation , and how someone’s empathy made a difference in that moment. Reflect on the power of empathy to bridge gaps and create connections even when differences seem insurmountable.
Create a dialogue between a parent and a child who is being bullied. Explore both perspectives deeply, articulating the child’s fears and the parent’s concerns and empathy. Reflect on the complexities of handling such a delicate situation and how empathy can guide both support and action.
Write a reflective piece on empathy itself, drawing from personal experiences. Consider how empathy has played a role in various relationships and moments in your life. Explore how it has shaped your worldview, your interactions with others, and even your understanding of yourself.
Imagine a scenario where you are tasked with mediating a serious conflict between two friends. Detail the arguments , the emotional atmosphere, and your role as a mediator. Reflect on how empathy guided your approach, allowing you to understand both sides and help find a resolution that acknowledged the feelings and needs of all parties involved.
Craft a letter to someone with whom you’ve lost touch, expressing a desire to reconnect. Describe your shared memories, why the relationship drifted apart, and your feelings about the separation. Focus on your genuine desire to understand their life now and rebuild a connection, showing empathy for whatever they may have been through.
Write about a personal experience where a small act of kindness had a big impact on you. Detail the act, the context, and the emotions that were stirred. Reflect on the understanding and empathy inherent in that act of kindness and how it might have influenced your own behavior towards others.
Describe a fictional scenario where a character must make an ethical decision that impacts others. Explore the situation, the options, and the potential consequences. Focus on how the character uses empathy to guide their decision-making, considering not just the rules but the human aspect of their choice.
Imagine a day in the life of a person who is hearing-impaired. Detail their daily interactions, challenges, and how they navigate a world designed for the hearing. Reflect on how this exercise can help foster empathy for differently-abled individuals and increase awareness of inclusivity.
Write a piece reflecting on the impact of social media on empathy. Consider both the positive connections and the negative disconnections that can occur online. Focus on personal experiences or observations, examining how empathy can be nurtured or eroded in virtual interactions.
Craft a fictional dialogue between a mentor and a mentee who is facing self-doubt. Detail the concerns of the mentee and the empathetic guidance provided by the mentor. Reflect on how empathy in leadership or mentorship roles can inspire growth , understanding, and self-confidence.
Describe an experience where cultural differences led to misunderstanding or conflict. Explain the situation, the cultural nuances involved, and how empathy played a role in resolution or deepened confusion. Reflect on the importance of empathetic cross-cultural communication in a diverse world.
Write a story about reconnecting with nature and understanding its fragility. Detail a personal or fictional experience in the wilderness, focusing on observations of natural beauty and signs of environmental stress. Reflect on how empathy for the natural world can drive conservation efforts and a sense of stewardship.

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Home / Essay Samples / Life / Emotion / Empathy

Empathy Essay Examples

Building empathy with communicating with others.

Why is empathy such an important role in communication? Why is it so hard to show empathy for someone facing a situation you never experienced? Does complex thinking effect empathy in way or are they different when communicating? What is the difference between sympathy and...

The Essence of Good Character

Good character is a fundamental aspect of human nature that shapes our interactions, decisions, and overall demeanor. It goes beyond external appearances and delves into the qualities that define our moral and ethical integrity. While the concept of good character may vary across cultures and...

The Power of Small Acts: Exploring the Importance of Kindness

There are different emotions and feeling that people like to see in other people. It is huge list but today we are focusing one of the main one which is kindness. We can pretty much say Kindness is one of the most important human qualities....

Empathy in a Moral System

Frequently morality and empathy are used interchangeably in both formal and informal conversation. This suggests that the two are so closely related that it is a common mistake to confuse the two. Additionally, it is accepted that empathy plays a foundational role in morality. The...

Understanding the Concept of Empathy

Hoffman (1984) defined empathy as the “cognitive awareness of another person’s internal states (thoughts, feelings, perceptions, intentions) and the vicarious affective response to another person” (p. 103). This definition explains empathy as a multidimensional construct referring to it as a cognitive phenomenon, while also recognising...

Good Country People with Emphathy

An individual who is to be considered as a good country person is one who is empathic – one who thinks of other people’s feelings and is able to put themselves in the shoes of their counterparts in certain situations. Also, to be a good...

The Role of Empathy in Medical Profession

“Empathy is about standing in someone else’s shoes, feeling with his or her heart, seeing with his or her eyes. Not only empathy is hard to outsource and automate, but it makes the world a better place”, an exceptional quote by Daniel H. Pink. With...

Empathy Expressed Through Jamaica Kincaid’s Poem

Throughout the story “A Clean Well-Lighted Place,” Ernest Hemingway shows how the concept of “loneliness” is displayed throughout the entire story. This suggests that the people who seem rich and happy will eventually have some of the darkest times in their life. The story “Girl”...

Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

What is empathy? “Empathy means to recognize others’ feelings, the causes of these feelings, and to be able to participate in the emotional experience of an individual without becoming part of it” (Ioannidou & Konstantikaki, 2008). Many people confuse sympathy with empathy, but they are...

The Relationship Between Prosocial Behavior and Animal Attitudes in a South African and Non-south African Population

The relationship established between prosocial behaviour and animal attitudes is one considered quite complex and contradictory. The goal of the study was to determine the relationship between prosocial behaviour and animal attitudes in a South African and non-South African population. A sample of 71 students...

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About Empathy

Empathy is the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another of either the past or present without having the feelings, thoughts, and experience fully communicated in an objectively explicit manner

Renowned psychologists Daniel Goleman and Paul Ekman have identified three components of empathy: Cognitive, Emotional and Compassionate.

Affective and cognitive empathy influence, and are influenced by, biological systems and processes that contribute to everyday feelings, thoughts, beliefs, decisions, and behavior. Empathetic feelings might enable individuals to develop more satisfactory interpersonal relations, especially in the long-term. Empathy-induced altruism can improve attitudes toward stigmatized groups, and to improve racial attitudes, and actions toward people with AIDS, the homeless, and convicts.

Painkillers reduce one’s capacity for empathy. Observation of another human being experiencing emotions lights up the same neurons in our brain as if we're experiencing the same feeling. Empathy exists because we know we’ve got only one life to live. Painkillers Reduce Your Capacity For Empathy Meditation May Heighten Empathy.

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