What does empathy promote in interpersonal relationships?

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, which plays a crucial role in fostering interpersonal relationships. When individuals demonstrate empathy, they are able to connect more deeply with others, as they can recognize and appreciate the emotions and experiences someone else is going through. This connection creates a sense of trust and safety, encouraging open communication and collaboration.

By understanding another person's perspective, especially in times of difficulty or emotional distress, empathy helps build bridges rather than barriers. It allows people to feel valued and heard, which is essential for developing strong, supportive relationships. Consequently, the presence of empathy in interactions promotes harmonious relationships and decreases the likelihood of conflict and misunderstanding, as individuals feel more seen and accepted.

In contrast, options that suggest negative outcomes such as conflict, rivalry, or feelings of isolation do not align with the positive nature of empathy. Empathy actively counteracts such feelings by enhancing mutual understanding and emotional support among individuals.