A Define of Dark Empath:

Dark empathy, a term that has been gaining attention in psychological circles, refers to individuals who possess a high level of cognitive empathy—the ability to understand others' emotions intellectually—but lack emotional empathy, meaning they do not genuinely feel or share others’ emotions. This phenomenon is often linked to people with narcissistic personality traits or disorders.

Cognitive empathy, one of three types of empathy outlined by researchers Paul Ekman and Daniel Goleman, is a key component in dark empathy. It allows individuals to understand the emotions of others, but without the genuine emotional response that is characteristic of emotional empathy. This dissociation can be manipulative rather than compassionate, as dark empaths often use their understanding of others' feelings to their advantage.

Narcissism, a trait that exists on a spectrum and can also be a mental health diagnosis, is one of the traits contributing to the dark empath personality. People with narcissistic personality disorder live with a sense of grandiosity, entitlement, and superiority. They may exhibit an inflated sense of self, a need for attention and admiration, and feelings of grandiosity.

However, it's important to note that dark empathy isn't a formal mental health symptom or diagnosis. The exact cause of dark empath traits is unknown and is believed to be a complex mixture of worldly experiences, disposition, and innate biological function.

While dark empaths express components of all three dark triad traits (narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism), psychopaths may not be able to comprehend or be aware of the thoughts, feelings, and needs of others. Psychopathy is not recognized as a diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). In clinical settings, traits of psychopathy are covered under the condition called antisocial personality disorder.

Common manipulation tactics used by dark empaths may include gaslighting, love bombing, ghosting, playing the victim, sarcasm, intimidation, gossiping, vindictive behaviors, and taking advantage of others. These behaviors are also associated with Machiavellianism, a concept that involves cynicism, abusive behaviors, vindictive behaviors, and use of emotional manipulation tactics, but is not a formal mental health condition.

Some experts believe the term "dark empathy" is misleading as empathy, in general, involves a concern for another's well-being. According to Cain, dark empaths possess "fractured empathy," a type of empathy missing critical aspects of what it means to be fully empathic - like concern for others.

Research suggests a dark empath often feels a lack of pleasure from social rewards, despite feeling the need for attention, high attunement to others' experiences and circumstances, emotional distance or detachment, a drive toward grandiosity conflicted by intense self-criticism. This complex mix of traits and behaviors makes understanding dark empaths a challenging task, with the difference between them and psychopaths not always clear. Some experts believe there is no difference, while others argue that the two are distinct entities.

In summary, dark empathy is a phenomenon that involves high cognitive empathy but lacks emotional empathy. It is often linked to narcissistic personality traits or disorders and is characterized by manipulative behaviors. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be a complex mixture of worldly experiences, disposition, and innate biological function. Understanding dark empathy is crucial for mental health professionals and the general public alike, as it sheds light on a fascinating yet complex aspect of human behavior.