EFFECTIVENESS OF A PROGRAM TO AWAKEN EMPATHY IN ADOLESCENTS

Empathetic behaviour in youth, can be beneficial for the youth as well as our nation and the world. Davis (1983) views empathy as, a multidimensional phenomenon including four subscales-perspective taking, fantasy, empathic concern and personal distress. The purpose of present study was to find the effectiveness of the program on the empathy level of Std. XI students. A sample of 70 students was randomly selected to undergo the community service program. Two unmatched group pre-test and post-test design usingDavis' Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) (Davis, 1980) were used. Findings revealed a significant difference between means, of Empathic Concern, Perspective taking and Personal distress.This indicates that the Program had a positive impact on the Empathy level in terms of,Perspective taking and Personal distress and not on Empathic Concern. More Research is needed needs to be done by incorporating service programs in the regular schedule of adolescents between 14-20 years and study the effectiveness on their empathy and social responsibility level.