Is empathy a passe concept?  Much research has been done on the impact of empathy in our lives.  Statistics from prestigious universities, which have studied the ways in which empathy affects the health and general well-being of our society, have suggested this.  It is disturbing, that empathy has decreased drastically while narcissism has dramatically increased in the past 30 years.

While these things are true, there is much that can be done to turn the tide of this phenomenon. Studies have shown that we are hardwired to care at birth. But this altruistic quality must be nurtured to become a lasting characteristic of one’s personality.

In today’s world, people of all ages are engaged in activities that are devoid of person to person interaction.  We are in intimate relationships with screens, on phones, computers, televisions and other electronic “friends.”  It is no wonder that we are finding it difficult to “feel for,” let alone “feel with” others.

When children are exposed to screens at early ages, the window of opportunity begins to close as deep human communication is diminished.  It is hard to “feel with” any other person if one does not spend significant time with other people.

While empathy impacts the “outer space” of our lives, (i.e. school, the workplace etc.), the most profound affect is within the individual. Children are especially vulnerable in this “virtual” world of electronic gadgets and communication devices.  There is a danger that they may be confused by what is real and what is not.  It is of vital importance for young children to have enough time with adults who care about them to show them how kindness is an important part of living a satisfying life.  If we want to teach empathy, it must be seen and nurtured everyday.

What children need the most to develop and grow in empathy, is lots of direct contact and guidance from their parents, caregivers and teachers.  Talking to them without distraction, playing together, and modeling caring behavior are the tools needed to create a friendlier, more welcoming dynamic in families.  Taking time to do these things shows children that they matter and that they are worth our undivided attention.  Empathy requires a fertile atmosphere in which to grow.

On the bright side, empathy can be learned at any age.  It isn’t easy, but it is possible.  Practicing kindness is something every adult should be doing.  Being nice to one another could be the best and possibly easiest first step in creating a better world.  In addition to fostering kindness, empathy could possibly be the antidote needed to make a positive change in this “all about me” world in which we live.  It may even be the catalyst needed to create an “all about us” culture of peace.