Make no mistake about it, empathy can combat cruelty.
Educational psychologist and renown parenting and bullying prevention expert, Dr. Michele Borba, reveals in her twenty-fourth book, UnSelfie, Why Empathic Kids Succeed In Our All-About-Me World that teens today are 40 percent less empathetic than those of thirty years ago and narcissism are increased by 58 percent. She points out that as “empathy wanes, bullying can rise, and tormentors begin to see victims as “objects,” not human beings.”
The good news is, as Dr. Borba shares, “Empathy is a trait that can be taught and nurtured. And so can moral courage. Empathy and courage are a powerful combo to solve the bullying crisis.”
I’m fortunate to have attended many of Dr. Borba’s speaking engagements. Not only is she one of the leading experts on this topic, she is extremely passionate about it. If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of her conferences, don’t miss it.
Her recent book, UnSelfie, is written for everyone. Typically I would say, a must read — however with this one, I say, a must own. You will find yourself going back to reference many parts. She writes for the reader – not in an academia format.
In my opinion, it’s not always about our kids and teens, we need to build empathy into many grown-ups too. We sit back and watch online cruelty inflicted by adults to adults and it’s deplorable. With kindness and compassion in our hearts, it’s difficult to be mean to each other.
Michele’s TEDx Talk in May 2016: Empathy Is A Verb.