The relationship between empathy, self-concept and family functioning among 5th grade elementary students

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between empathy, self-concept and family functioning among elementary students. Data were gathered from 208 (105 male, 103 female) from Bursa Setbasi Elemantary School, in 2003-2004 academic year, fall semester. Data were gathered by using Index of Empathy for Children (IEC; Bryant, 1982), Family Assessment Device Scale (FAD; Epstein, et al., 1983), and Piers-Harris Self-Concept Scale Child Form (PHCSCS; Piers-Harris, 1984). The relationship among the students' empathy scores, seven different family functions scores, and self-concept scores was calculated by using Pearson Product Moments correlation formula. The results showed that students' empathy was significantly related to self-concept and family functioning. The fmdings were discussed in the context of literature.