Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) Practice Test

If a person feels sad about tragic images on television, what does it suggest about their emotional sensitivity?

1. They are emotionally detached

2. They have low empathy

3. They are caring and compassionate

4. They show no interest in human suffering

The correct answer is: They are caring and compassionate

The selection that highlights a person's emotional sensitivity in response to tragic images on television indicates a caring and compassionate nature. Feelings of sadness when witnessing distressing events suggest that the individual has an awareness of and connection to the experiences of others. This emotional response reflects a capacity for empathy, where the individual not only feels their own emotions but also resonates with the feelings of others who are suffering. This level of emotional engagement is a hallmark of compassion, demonstrating that the person values human experiences and is moved by the hardships faced by others. In contrast, other options imply a lack of emotional connection or empathy. Emotional detachment would suggest indifference to such tragedies, while low empathy would mean a diminished ability to empathize with the feelings of others. Showing no interest in human suffering would further reinforce a disconnect from compassion. Therefore, the response to emotional stimuli such as tragic images reveals a caring attitude, aligning most closely with the notion of compassion.