quote:

Not all sociopaths are sadists (blunted empathy/indifference does not equal gratification from others' pain) and certainly not all sadists are disregulated sociopaths.

quote:

And, yes, there are differing perceptions of empathy. As a deterrent to antisocial behavior (as explored by this study) it is clearly less effective in those with CD than control subjects, but again, is that due to blunted empathy or to diminished capacity for emotional and impulse regulation? (Personally, i feel it is probably a combination.)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Psychonaut23

quote:

As a note.... It seems that many interpet Empathy as implying the person has Compassion for the other individual. In it's narrow's definition "Empathy" is the understanding and appreciation of what another is feeling... but... just because one understands and even appreciates what another feels in the moment doesn't denote they care or are compassionate about those feelings.

I know it hurts.  I can see that.  It's quite obvious it hurts.  And I can understand why you're crying, I would cry to in your position.  It's an awful place to be.

Just a few more minutes now.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Mercnbeth

Love - Like - Lust

Questions have already been asked whether emotions play a role in a 'lifestyle' relationship. Good arguments are made on both sides. What serves individuals to achieve their desires can't be argued on terms like 'good' or 'bad', better or worse. However a question came up in a discussion that pointed to another trait that may be the key to separating the 'psychopathic' sadists highlighted as the 'bad guys' on Law & Order, from the; "I may hurt you, but won't kill you (at least on purpose)" variety. That word is empathy.

I won't make a generalization but speaking for myself and many fellow sadists I've met and hang out with; we are selfish. We want our submissives, slaves, servants, around us all the time. We want them there and ready to placate our every whim and desire, as well as a handy outlet for our sadism. However, there is a point where another emotion is worked into the equation, in service and as an sadistic outlet - empathy.

I'm the first to say that no sadist knows or can process the physical, emotional pain and mentally feel what a masochist feels during play. But you should, in my opinion, at least be able to understand the 'humanity' of your partner and not put them in a position to 'break'; emotionally, mentally, or physically.

This is a season for conflict. Family, friends, children, split family obligations; and only one day to spread yourself among those. Of course a 'Master' should have the ability to dictate where his 'slave' goes on any given day. However will a few hours, or a full day, of empathetic consideration, sacrificing a bit a selfishness, serve more than any other possible action to establish trust?

Should you be a dominant without empathy for your partner?

Should a submissive be worried if their dominant partner seems not to have any empathy for them?

Not love, not like, not experiencing the same sensations; but is empathy, reciprocal empathy at that, the one absolute for a good relationship dynamic?