The empathy gap, also known as a lack of empathy, is an important social issue that has received increased attention in recent years. This phenomenon describes a person's difficulty or inability to empathise with other people's emotions, thoughts or perspectives. It is a pattern of human behaviour that can have a variety of effects on interpersonal relationships and society as a whole.

In today's world of technology and digitalisation, you might think that empathy should be enhanced by constant connectivity and access to information. However, the opposite is often true. The empathy gap can be particularly evident in social media and online communication. People can hide behind screens and feel less obliged to empathise with the feelings of others. Comments on social media, which are often written without much thought, can be hurtful and insensitive without the writers intending it.

But the empathy gap is not just limited to the online world. It can also occur in our personal lives. People who have difficulty feeling empathy tend to exacerbate conflicts and strain relationships. This can occur in different contexts, be it in the family, at work or in social groups.

It is important to emphasise that the empathy gap is not insurmountable. It can be overcome through conscious effort and mindfulness. Recognising and understanding the emotions of others is the first step towards increasing empathy. Empathy can also be fostered through active listening and endeavouring to understand other people's perspectives.

Overall, the empathy gap is a relevant issue that affects the way we interact with each other. It is important to be aware of this gap and take action to promote empathy in our society. The ability to empathise with others is key to improving interpersonal relationships and creating a positive social environment.