Empathy and associated influencing factors in occupational therapy students: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Empathy, often described as the comprehension of another

person’s state of mind, enables one to appreciate social environments and anticipate others’ behaviour. In occupational therapy, the therapeutic use of self, which is grounded in empathy, is commonly considered essential, as it enables therapists to manage a therapeutic relationship with clients. However, high caseloads, stressors and pressure to perform often impact empathy levels. This study aimed to determine the empathy levels of undergraduate occupational therapy students, as well as factors affecting empathy levels.

Method: A quantitative approach was used, with an observational, cross-sectional study methodology, employing an electronic survey consisting of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) and a questionnaire developed by the researchers.

Results: In total, 112 (response rate 70.4%) students participated in the study. Overall, the students had a satisfactory level of empathy. Of concern, however, was the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the lack of clinical fieldwork experience, which possibly contributed to the lower empathy levels observed among second-and third-year students.

Conclusion: From the findings, it is suggested that more attention should be given to empathy, as it plays an integral role in practice with clients, as well as in the training of occupational therapy students.

Implications for practice

The findings suggest the opportunity for interventions and support systems that can help students manage high caseloads, stressors, and performance pressures, while also fostering and maintaining empathy. Implementing strategies such as stress management programs, mindfulness training, and self-care initiatives can help mitigate the negative impact on empathy levels and promote the development of empathetic skills in future occupational therapists.

The research study’s results have implications for the professional practice of occupational therapy. It emphasizes the need for ongoing education and training programs that focus on empathy development and maintenance throughout a therapist’s career.

By providing therapists with the tools, resources, and support to sustain their empathy levels in challenging work environments, the study suggests that the quality of care provided to clients can be enhanced, leading to better therapeutic outcomes and overall client satisfaction.

Organizational changes within healthcare settings may be necessary to address workload issues and create a supportive environment that nurtures empathy among occupational therapy professionals.