Impact of Cinema on Levels of Empathy and Emotion Regulation in Artists and Non-Artists: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Cinema or Films have been one of the most popular forms of entertainment for a long time, no matter whether it’s a digital or a non-digital platform. As they have become an indispensable part of our life, we need to start identifying how they affect our mental health at large. Studies have found that the majority of the population has been using cinema as a coping mechanism to avoid anxiety, negative life situations, and to prolong good moods. Earlier studies have shown the immediate effects of cinema on our emotions but work on its prolonged effects remains minimal. The current research aims to find out the impact of cinema on an individuals’ empathy level and how one regulates their emotions. The study was conducted on 94 individuals (47 Artists, 47 Non-Artists) between the age of 19-35 years. Standardized scales of Narrative Engagement, Interpersonal Reactivity and Emotion Regulation were administered to the participants. The results indicated a significant correlation between Narrative engage ability and Interpersonal Reactivity. No significant correlation was found between Narrative Engagement and Emotion Regulation. There were no significant differences found between the Artists and the Non-Artists. Further, it is suggested to study more about the prolonged effects, direct or indirect, of cinema on empathy and regulation of emotions to have a better understanding of its impact.