Empathy as a protective factor against suicidal behaviour. Case-control study

Abstract

Introduction. Suicidal behaviour is currently one of the biggest public health problems with an increase in prevalence in recent years. The multidimensional model of empathy discriminates between different aspects of both affective and cognitive empathy, and allows further study of risk and protective factors for suicidal behaviour. Aim. Analyse the differential pattern of empathy in patients with suicidal behaviour and in healthy controls.

Methods. Observational case-control study in 95 patients and 151 healthy controls. The Empathy Quotient scale and the Interpersonal Reactivity Index [cognitive empathy subscales: IRI-Perspective Taking (IRI-PT), IRI-Fantasy Scale (IRI-FS)] were used; affective empathy subscales: IRI-Empathetic Concern (IRI-EC), IRI-Personal Distress (IRI-PD)].

Results. 51 (53.7%) of the patients presented suicidal behaviour, and had, in relation to the patients without suicidal behaviour, statistically significant higher scores in IRI-EC (p=0.047). Compared to healthy controls, patients with suicidal behaviour had less empathy EQ (p=0.001) both cognitive (IRI-PT p=0.002; IRI-FS p=0.040) and affective (IRI-EC p= 0.029) and more anxiety IRI-PD (p<0.0001).

Discussion. Patients with suicidal behaviour have a differential pattern of empathy compared to healthy controls. The results suggest that empathy is a protective factor against suicidal behaviour. Brief therapeutic interventions in vulnerable people in crises should effectively relieve anxiety and offer a space to feel and express discomfort.