Definition
Perspective-taking is the deliberate cognitive act of imagining another’s point of view. It supports understanding, negotiation, and repair, and it can be practiced and improved.
Why it matters
Framing perspective-taking as a skill rather than a trait opens it to development — in therapy, education, and diplomacy.
The Science
Perspective-taking engages medial prefrontal and temporoparietal circuits. It reduces stereotyping and improves negotiation outcomes in controlled studies.
The NSI Perspective
NSI treats perspective-taking as one of the practical operations of an integrated social brain.
Clinical Implications
Couples therapy, mediation, and DBT explicitly build this capacity.
Practical Application
Try describing the situation from the other person’s vantage before you argue for your own. It often changes the argument.
References
- 1.Galinsky AD, Moskowitz GB. Perspective-taking: decreasing stereotype expression, stereotype accessibility, and in-group favoritism. J Pers Soc Psychol. 2000;78(4):708–724.