Abstract
This study sought to investigate if a short mindfulness induction can augment empathic functioning, while taking into account the role of the personality traits. Analysis of 102 participants suggests that a short mindfulness induction is most effective in improving cognitive empathy in individuals with lower trait Conscientiousness and Extraversion scores. No evidence was found for a moderation effect with regard to affective empathy. Results of this study are incongruent with studies utilising self-report measures of empathic functioning, but congruent with both predictions from personality theory as well as studies not assessing empathy through self-report measures. Implications for understanding the relationship between personality and mindfulness, as well as appropriate assessment procedures, are discussed.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 492-498 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Personality and Individual Differences |
Volume | 86 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Nov 2015 |
Keywords
- Empathy
- Mindfulness
- Personality traits
- Big five
- Cognitive empathy
- Affective empathy