Katharina Buczek
From these three central takeaways, the researchers believe that parents and teachers should focus on two specific habits. The first one is teaching kids the importance of meaningful apologies.
Kelly Lynn Mulvey, the study’s lead author, said, “Children are capable of discerning an insincere apology, and insincere apologies were not conducive to encouraging forgiveness. The apology needs to make clear that someone understands why what they did was wrong and, in turn, this makes other kids more likely to give them a second chance.”
The second habit is helping children understand the viewpoints of others– quite literally, “putting themselves in another child’s shoes.”
Mulvey believes that the study’s most significant implication points back to parents and teachers.
These adult figures need to actively engage and help the child grow their theory of mind skill set.
“A good starting point is getting kids to explain the rationale behind their actions and how this might make other people feel. Helping young people develop these skills in childhood will aid them in navigating a diverse and complex world,” Mulvey added.
To read the complete study, visit the link here.
