by Erica Ishmael, LPC, MS-ED—Open Access Therapist
The Double Empathy Problem, put in simple terms, is that people of different experiences struggle to understand or even empathize with each other.
This can occur when there are differences in socio-economic status, differences in cultural lifestyles, and even differences in neurotypes. This term was originally coined in 2012 by Dr. Damian Milton when studying the communication differences between Autistics and non-Autistics. His studies, along with other research, showed that people of similar neurotypes communicated effectively together.
However, people of different neurotypes struggled to communicate effectively. Unfortunately, the person whose neurotype is the minority is often seen as having communication issues. And this is where the concept of “differences not deficits” comes into play.
Now that we understand the Double Empathy Problem, we can introduce another layer: the Triple Empathy Problem. This issue arises when there are multiple differences that interfere with communication.
Researchers coined this term while investigating why there was a health care disparity among Autistic individuals. They concluded that communication difficulties arose not only because of differences in neurotypes but also because of differences in education level. However, a Triple Empathy Problem may also be present when there are differences in race, cultural identity, and socio-economic status.
What can we do?
- Be open to learning about different types of diversity.
- Avoid assumptions and ask questions.
- Focus on inclusion, ensuring everyone feels like they belong.
- Consider your bias and challenge stereotypes.
Citations
Spectrum News. “Double Empathy Explained.” https://www.spectrumnews.org/news/double-empathy-explained/
Autism.org.uk. “Double Empathy.” https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/double-empathy
Sage Journals. “Article on Triple Empathy Problem.” https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13623613231205629