These educators tap into their own cognitive empathy to see another’s perspective, and their own affective empathy to feel what another is experiencing. Research on affective empathy shows that the brain can mirror another person’s pain, but in a muted form. Start by reminding students that every single person on the planet has a unique brain and we’re all on a journey to learn how our brains work. It will open the door to talking about neuroplasticity and the capacity of our brains to change. Cognitive Empathy & Emotional Awareness: Next StepsJennifer Fraser, Ph.D., is a former teacher and the author of five books.