The changing role of empathy in the link between direct and indirect trauma exposure and anxiety symptoms.

OBJECTIVE: In wartime, civilians are frequently exposed to trauma both directly (e.g., missile attacks) and indirectly (e.g., distressing stories). Responses to trauma differ among individuals; some exhibit increased negative emotional reactions, while others can maintain their psychological well-being. This variability may stem from differences in affective and cognitive empathy levels. Research indicates that under stressful conditions, heightened affective empathy often increases negative emotions. Conversely, cognitive empathy typically alleviates distress. The present study has explored the potential conflict between these forms of empathy and their impact on anxiety symptoms in cases of direct and indirect cumulative trauma exposure during war. METHOD: = 7.43) were evaluated for trauma exposure, empathy, and the severity of anxiety symptoms during the first month of a distressing war. RESULTS: , anxiety remained elevated regardless of the type or level of empathy. CONCLUSIONS: These findings emphasize the necessity of distinguishing between types of exposure and support the development of cognitive empathy-focused interventions to enhance civilian mental health during continuous conflict situations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).