WHATS IT ALL ABOUT, EMPATHY

This paper investigates the concept of empathy, a core element of all helping relationships. A discussion of its prevalence in the nursing l iterature is traced, before a discussion ensues as to whether it is a naturally acquired ability which develops with maturity, or whether it is a skill that can be taught and learnt. It is concluded that empath y remains a poorly defined, multidimensional concept which still remai ns not fully identified.