attunement

Definition

The ability to be responsive, receptive, and sensitively aware of another person's emotional state or needs.

Etymology

Derived from the English 'attune' (to bring into musical harmony), which originated from the prefix 'ad-' (to) and 'tune' (a melody or harmonious sound), evolving to describe being in harmony with someone else's feelings.

In the news

The authors describe a teacher's 'quiet attunement' as her ability to look past behavioral challenges and truly perceive what a student was attempting to communicate.

Beyond Words: Neurodiversity, Music, and Connections

Psychology Today

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