A neural model of empathic states in attachment-based psychotherapy

Abstract

We build on a neuroanatomical model of how empathic states can motivate caregiving behaviour, via empathy circuit-driven activation of regions in the hypothalamus and amygdala which in turn stimulate a mesolimbic-ventral pal- lidum pathway, by integrating findings related to the perception of pain in self and others. Based on this we propose a network to capture states of personal distress and empathic concern, which are particularly relevant for psychothera- pists conducting attachment-based interventions. This model is then extended for the case of Self-Attachment therapy in which conceptualised components of the self serve as both the source of and target for empathic resonance, and we consider how states of empathic concern involving an other that is perceived as being closely related to the self might enhance the motivation for self-directed bonding. We simulate our model computationally, and discuss the interplay between the bonding and empathy protocols of the therapy.