Study Shows Ways To Teach Children About Forgiveness

Written By:

Written By:

Psychology News – Study found that teaching children how to understand other people’s perspectives makes it extremely easy for them to learn forgiveness. It suggests that knowing how to make sincere apologies helps children receive forgiveness from others.

In a new study, researchers at the North Carolina State University examined 185 children (aged 5-14 years) by conducting an in-depth interview with each child to collect background information and evaluate the child’s “theory of mind” skills. The researchers divided the children into different groups and led each child through a variety of scenarios that involved other children who were either in their group or out of their group. The children were asked whether they wanted to forgive a group that left them out of an activity or game.

As per the study findings, children who apologized were more likely to forgive others and they tend to forgive those people who were in their group. The researchers found that the children’s capabilities to forgive others were largely based on the advancement of their “theory of mind” skills. The result showed that children have sophisticated abilities to forgive others and they are also capable of restoring relationships with others.

“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. This, in turn, makes other kids more likely to give them a second chance,” said Kelly Lynn Mulvey, lead author of the study.

According to Mulvey, it is extremely important for teachers and parents to help kids cultivate their “theory of mind” skills. “Helping young people develop these skills in childhood will aid them in navigating a diverse and complex world,” he added further.

To Know More You May Refer To:

Mulvey, K. L., Gönültaş, S., Herry, E., & Strelan, P. (2021). The role of theory of mind, group membership, and apology in intergroup forgiveness among children and adolescents. Journal of experimental psychology. General, 10.1037/xge0001094. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/xge0001094

— Share —

Published On:

Last updated on:

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • The Psychological Toll Of Birth Control Side Effects: What You Need To Know

    The Psychological Toll Of Birth Control Side Effects: What You Need To Know

  • How Medical Alert Systems Support Mental Well-Being For Seniors

    How Medical Alert Systems Support Mental Well-Being For Seniors

  • Mindfulness and Sobriety: How Daily Reflections Foster Mental Clarity

    Mindfulness and Sobriety: How Daily Reflections Foster Mental Clarity

  • How Can You Streamline Your Insurance Check Before Seeing a Psychiatrist in California: A Practical Guide

    How Can You Streamline Your Insurance Check Before Seeing a Psychiatrist in California: A Practical Guide

  • A Mindful Approach to Managing Stress and Emotional Well-Being

    A Mindful Approach to Managing Stress and Emotional Well-Being

  • How Semaglutide Compares to Other Weight Loss Medications

    How Semaglutide Compares to Other Weight Loss Medications

  • Healing Beyond the Battlefield: How Financial Stability and Housing Support Improve Mental Health for Veterans with Disabilities

    Healing Beyond the Battlefield: How Financial Stability and Housing Support Improve Mental Health for Veterans with Disabilities

  • The Role of Early Intervention in Preventing Long-Term Mental Health Struggles

    The Role of Early Intervention in Preventing Long-Term Mental Health Struggles

  • Navigating Mental Health Education: Your Path to a Fulfilling Healthcare Career

    Navigating Mental Health Education: Your Path to a Fulfilling Healthcare Career

  • Botox vs. Fillers: Which is Right for You?

    Botox vs. Fillers: Which is Right for You?