Effects of a Reappraisal on Empathy of Alexithymia

Abstract

The study investigated the correlation between alexithymia, empathy, and emotion regulation strategies. Results of a questionnaire survey of 161 females indicated that those with higher affective alexithymia displayed lower cognitive empathy, particularly when employing a reappraisal strategy. The findings indicate that alexithymia is linked to reduced empathy toward others and one’s own emotional awareness. Therefore, emotion regulation techniques may be able to inhibit lower empathy associated with alexithymia. Future research should explore the link to psychological maladjustment and potential clinical applications.