The dialectic of compassion, empathy, sympathy and compassion in nursing practice: a theoretical essay

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Published: 2024-07-23
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17060/ijodaep.2024.n1.v2.2696
Keywords:
essay, compassion, empathy, nursing theory

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Daniela Cunha
Professora Adjunta Convidada na Escola Superior de Saúde do Norte da Cruz Vermelha
Paula Carvalho
Doutoranda em Estudos da Criança – CIEC, Instituto de Educação Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
Zélia Caçador Anastácio
CIEC, Instituto de Educação Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal

Abstract

Introduction: An in-depth understanding of the interdependence between the concepts of compassion, empathy, sympathy and compassion is essential to underpin the humanistic and scientific approach that characterises the nursing profession, and is essential for ensuring quality care. These concepts not only have a positive impact on the establishment of the helping relationship, but also enable the understanding of experiences and emotions, promoting the building of mutual trust and laying a solid foundation for effective collaboration in thecare process. Objective: To critically analyse the dynamic relationship between compassion,empathy, sympathy and compassion in nursing practice, relating them to the theories that underpin these concepts. Methods: This theoretical essay analyses nursing concepts and theories, emphasising the importance of promoting a compassionate approach by meticulously structuring theoretical concepts to stimulate critical discussion and their implementation in nursing practice. Results: The results show a complex interconnection between the concepts addressed, emphasising empathy as fundamental to understanding the person’s needs. The following nursing theories stand out for their conceptual foundations: Madeleine Leininger’s Transcultural Care Theory, Jean Watson’s Humanised Care Theory, Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Theory and Hildegard Peplau’s Interpersonal Relations Theory. Discussion of results: The theories associated with the concepts defined share the premise that nursing practice goes beyond the technical domain, integrating interpersonal, emotional and cultural elements. This study highlights the importance of compassion, empathy, sympathy and compassion in nursing practice, recognising them as essential pillars that influence the quality of healthcare. Conclusion: We conclude that by recognising the interconnectedness of these concepts with established theories, we reiterate the humanistic
and scientific side of nursing. This approach not only increases the quality of care, but also strengthens the different dimensions of the person.

Article Details

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024): Viviendo la edad en positivo. El envejecimiento como riqueza del ser humano

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Articles
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Author Biographies

Daniela Cunha, Professora Adjunta Convidada na Escola Superior de Saúde do Norte da Cruz Vermelha

Professora Adjunta Convidada na Escola Superior de Saúde do Norte da Cruz Vermelha

Paula Carvalho, Doutoranda em Estudos da Criança – CIEC, Instituto de Educação Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal

Doutoranda em Estudos da Criança – CIEC, Instituto de Educação Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal

Zélia Caçador Anastácio, CIEC, Instituto de Educação Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal

CIEC, Instituto de Educação Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal

How to Cite

The dialectic of compassion, empathy, sympathy and compassion in nursing practice: a theoretical essay. (2024). International Journal of Developmental and Educational Psychology. Revista INFAD De Psicología., 2(1), 31-38. https://doi.org/10.17060/ijodaep.2024.n1.v2.2696

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