Second language (L2) and the effects on pain estimation, empathy and emotionality
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2025-08-25
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en
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Abstract
This study investigated the effect of reading pain descriptions in a second language
on pain estimation, empathy, and emotionality. Three groups participated: native
Dutch speakers reading Dutch (L1D, n = 20), native Dutch speakers reading German
as a second language (L2G, n = 14), and native German speakers reading German
(L1G, n = 17). Participants rated perceived pain, emotionality, and empathy after
reading the descriptions. A one-way ANOVA and Pearson’s r correlations were
conducted. No group differences were found for empathy. Emotionality was higher in
the L1G and L2G groups compared to L1D and pain ratings were higher in L2G than
L1G. Empathy was positively correlated with both emotionality and pain estimations,
but emotionality and pain estimation were unrelated. These findings suggest that
reading in a second language does not reduce emotional engagement or pain
estimation and may, in some cases, enhance them.
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