Can loneliness be reduced by changing perceptions of empathy? A large-scale study by Pei et al. shows that people tend to underestimate others’ empathy, and correcting this misconception fosters social connection and increases the formation of friendships.
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References
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Shamay-Tsoory, S. Changing empathy perceptions improves connection. Nat Hum Behav 9, 2006–2007 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-025-02291-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-025-02291-6