Empathy reduces reactivity by encouraging individuals to pause and consider the feelings and perspectives of others, thus diminishing the likelihood of impulsive anger outbursts. Empathy often leads to feelings of compassion and forgiveness. When you understand that others, like yourself, are imperfect and prone to mistakes, you may be more willing to let go of grudges and resentments that can fuel anger. When you feel empathy, you're less likely to react impulsively to provoking situations, which can lead to decreased anger outbursts.
For example, instead of getting angry at a driver who cut you off, you empathize, thinking they might be rushing to the hospital. You let them pass without reacting in anger. Or instead of lashing out when a family member makes a hurtful comment, you empathize, realizing they may have been stressed and didn't mean to be hurtful. You calmly address the issue later.
For example, instead of getting angry at a driver who cut you off, you empathize, thinking they might be rushing to the hospital. You let them pass without reacting in anger. Or instead of lashing out when a family member makes a hurtful comment, you empathize, realizing they may have been stressed and didn't mean to be hurtful. You calmly address the issue later.
