Issues with Empathy
Empathy encompasses a wide range of mental and emotional responses, where a person can put themselves in another person’s shoes and thereby comprehend their experience as if one had it. Being empathetic makes one more likely to assist others and demonstrate kindness.
People with OCPD typically try to rationalize their feelings and ignore the impact of emotion on social interactions. Because of this, they have little emotional expression and show little compassion. Nonetheless, their lack of empathy stems less from malicious intent and more from a hyper-logical way of thinking and expression, which they adamantly believe is necessary.
Based on a study’s findings, all mentalizing assessments demonstrated impairments in OCPD patients compared to controls wherein they could not empathize with others’ feelings and thoughts. They may also experience discomfort while in the company of someone who shows strong emotions.
Patients with OCPD sometimes lack insight into how their harsh criticism and micromanagement impact others around them. They have a hard time accepting responsibility for their actions and offering apologies, as they are not aware of the offense of their actions. Therapies for OCPD often include simple roleplaying responses, including practicing empathy, apologizing, and compassion.
