Empathy, social values and civic behaviour among early adolescents in Ireland: Scientific report

Abstract

At an international level, there is evidence that empathy values, social concern, and civic engagement are declining among younger generations as a consequence of the increasing individualisation of society over recent decades (Hylton, 2018; Gudjohnsen, 2016; Putnam, 2016; Levine & Liu, 2015; Kidd, 2013). Given the importance of empathy and related social values to social cohesion and democracy, it can be argued that it is of societal importance that values of empathy and care towards others be given due attention in research and policy. To date, however, there has been little research conducted on this topic among youth in Ireland. This study aims to generate empirical evidence regarding the values and experiences of youth in Ireland towards a range of issues which reflect a sense of social responsibility towards others, including an analysis of factors that influence the development of social values and empathy. It also aims to review the degree to which national policy and curriculum supports the promotion of such values.