WOULD EMPATHY GROWS THROUGH SHORT STORY? AN INTERPERSONAL REACTIVITY INDEX ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of short stories as a safe and powerful simulation tool in developing empathy among young people. Short stories are believed to train the brain in the Theory of Mind process and trigger similar emotional responses, which are central to the ability to empathize. This research uses a descriptive narrative approach involving 20 students in Gorontalo. They will read six short stories themed around women's suffering, then discuss them through the Zoom application. Qualitative data analysis is done through coding based on the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) and the Developmental Theory of Empathy to assess systemic empathy maturity. The results show that short stories successfully trigger high Affective Empathy (EC) and Cognitive Empathy (PT) among students. Female students are dominant in EC responses, while male students tend to show Personal Distress (PD) mechanisms by criticizing the author's writing style. Crucial empathy maturity is achieved when participants are able to go beyond momentary feelings and reach a consensus to identify and critique oppressive systems as the root of suffering, especially in discussions of the short stories "Api Sita" and "Malam Pertama Calon Pendeta." The conclusion of this study affirms that literary fiction is effective in fostering empathy, encouraging critical understanding of chronic difficulties, and training social skills in the real world. Obstacles were found in the form of PD and cultural identity defenses that limit Cognitive Empathy on deeply rooted customary issues.