Development of Children’s Perspective-Taking and Empathy through Bullying-Themed Books and Role-Playing

Abstract

This study examines how reading bullying-themed children’s picture books and role-playing based on these books help young children develop perspective-taking abilities and empathy as well as understanding of bullying. Twenty-one 5-year-old children enrolled in a Flower Garden childcare center located in a metropolitan city in South Korea participated in this study, as well as their teacher Ms. Min. Over the course of six weeks, six role-playing activities based on the bully-themed picture books were implemented according to the following four steps: (1) story reading and discussion, (2) planning for role-playing, (3) role-playing, and (4) reflection. Findings showed that children initially did not convey much empathy toward victims of bullying. As the book readings and role-playing progressed, however, children considered different perspectives, made connections with their own experiences, and expressed sympathy. They used various vocalization, facial expressions, and physical movements to express their feelings during the role-playing activities. Furthermore, they offered their own ideas about what actions should be taken to solve bullying issues.