Israeli Empathy Defined by Directness and Authenticity, Study Finds
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Israeli life coaching emphasizes a unique form of empathy characterized by directness and authenticity, according to anthropologist Dr. Tamar Kena-Shalit. Her research suggests Israelis express care by speaking their minds honestly, a concept rooted in the cultural value of "Dugri." This approach contrasts with Western therapeutic styles focused on emotional validation. The study also reveals a tension between individualism and collectivism in Israeli society, with a tendency towards group support even in personal development.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israeli empathy prioritizes directness and authenticity as a sign of genuine care, research by Dr. Tamar Kena-Shalit suggests.
- This "Israeli empathy" contrasts with Western therapeutic approaches that focus more on emotional expression and validation.
- The concept is linked to the cultural value of "Dugri," meaning straightforwardness and honesty.
- Research indicates a tension between individualism and collectivism in Israeli society regarding personal development.
- Israeli coaching often fosters group support, unlike the more individualistic approach seen in the West.
Dr. Tamar Kena-Shalit, an anthropologist of psychology at Tel-Hai University, has researched the unique nature of empathy within Israeli culture, particularly as it manifests in life coaching. Her work, which will be presented at an upcoming coaching research conference in Tel Aviv on November 26, suggests that Israelis prioritize directness and authenticity in expressing care, a concept she terms "Israeli empathy."
Kena-Shalit's research involved participating in three life coach training schools and conducting in-depth interviews. She observed that unlike Western therapeutic approaches that emphasize emotional expression and validation, Israeli coaching often involves speaking one's mind directly, even if it risks causing offense. This approach, she posits, is rooted in the cultural concept of "Dugri" (straightforwardness), historically associated with the "Tzabar" image of being rugged and honest.
This directness, Kena-Shalit explains, is perceived as a genuine sign of caring. "If I tell you what I really think about the situation you are in, it probably means I really care about you," she stated. This contrasts with a more generalized Western approach that might prioritize emotional validation and self-expression, as seen in shows like "In Treatment" or "Shtisel."
Her research also highlights a tension in Israeli society between individualism and collectivism. While the West often views life coaching through a capitalist lens of maximizing personal gain, Israelis tend to resist applying this purely business-oriented approach to personal relationships, especially family. Instead, there's a tendency to form groups and support each other, indicating a lingering collectivist spirit.
Kena-Shalit noted that while the concept of "Dugri" may be less commonly used as slang today, its cultural significance remains strong. She also observed that Israeli coaching, while a counterpoint to psychology, has developed its own distinct style, potentially influencing even Israeli psychologists to be more direct than their international counterparts.