Final answer:
An empathetic response in communication means to understand and share another person's feelings, characterized by active listening, cognitive empathy, and genuine concern. This form of communication is central to personal and professional relationships and is essential for social problem solving and conflict avoidance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The attribute of an empathetic response in communication involves deeply understanding and sharing the feelings of another person. This type of response is characterized by active listening, cognitive empathy, and genuine concern for the well-being of the other individual. By engaging in reflexive communication, we demonstrate an interest in others, which is crucial for forming strong, supportive relationships. Intentional communication also plays a role as it reflects our desire for sociability and connects us on a human level by giving and seeking information, expressing and reacting to emotions, and persuading others.
Real-life applications of empathetic communication include being a good listener without judgment or interruption, using body gestures and facial expressions to indicate understanding, and putting another person's concerns at the center of the conversation. This skill of understanding and relating to others' perspectives fosters effective social problem solving and conflict avoidance, which are valuable in both personal and professional domains.
Cognitive empathy, a key part of emotional intelligence, tends to increase during the teenage years as part of the developmental process. This increasing ability to take others' perspectives is fundamental for thriving in society and contributes to a moral sense which is rooted in the capacity for sympathy and empathy.