As parents, we always want the best for our children. We want them to grow up happy, healthy, and successful. While we spend so much time focusing on those aspects, though, we sometimes forget things like emotional intelligence and empathy.
However, a new research study is showing that empathy may actually be the key to helping children avoid risky behavior and finding success as adults. In fact, these findings highlight just how important it is for kids to feel supported by their parents.
The study, which recently published in the Journal of Moral Education, analyzed survey results from nearly 4,000 children between the ages of 12 and 17. The children answered a variety of questions regarding their parents' displays of empathy, their own empathy levels, and the types of activities they engage in.
Researchers found that kids who felt empathy from their parents were less likely to engage in risky behaviors or delinquent acts. In other words, children who feel support from their parents behave better during their teenage years. Furthermore, researchers also saw that the opposite is true: Kids who don't feel loved and supported by their parents are more likely to act out as teens.
Furthermore, the study determined that "parental warmth, sensitivity, and a strong parent-child bond correlated positively with child prosocial behavior and empathy." In other words, children who feel love and support from their parents are more likely to display empathy and love towards others.
Previous research studies, like one by the University of Michigan, found correlations between children who lack empathy and aggression or violence during adulthood. However, nobody has previously studied the role that parents play in children developing or lacking empathy in this type of way.
Although Science Daily notes that other factors, like self-esteem, may also impact a teen's propensity towards risky behavior, this research is eye-opening for many parents.
Parents need to understand that modeling empathy and openly discussing feelings with children can help them grow into self-sufficient, caring adults who avoid problematic behaviors. Luckily, teaching children empathy isn't hard to do — and parents can start at any time.
Sources: Journal of Moral Education, University of Michigan
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February 27, 2021 at 11:00PM
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Empathetic Parents Lowers Child's Risky Behavior | Moms.com - Moms
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