This review analyzes the conceptual approach and measurement of empathy in the disorders on the autism spectrum. Empathy is a construct encompassing a variety of approaches in the cognitive sciences. In can be established that a diversity of conceptions of empathy exist. Studies show a dichotomy in the processing of empathy in subjects with autism, suggesting a deficit of empathy in cognitive functioning but not in affective functioning. In the study of these areas, there is a tendency to employ self-reports, questionnaires, and theory of mind tasks. however, brain measurements have shown atypical activations of the right prefrontal cortex, the temporoparietal junction, the insular cortex and the fusiform gyrus.