Empathy can be defined as (a) the ability to experience someone else’s feelings, emotions and perspectives, and (b) the ability to understand another’s emotions and experiences. Research shows that teaching empathy facilitates pro-social behaviour and supports the prevention of anti-social behaviour. This lesson aims to focus on empathy, feelings and establishing a positive school environment.
It also teaches positive bystander behaviour and how to avoid Diffusion of Responsibility.
Students should be enabled to:
- Describe what empathy is and identify some ways in which you can show empathy towards others
- Reflect on the feelings of those involved in bullying/cyberbullying incidents
- Describe what a bystander is in bullying situations
- Name the different types of bystanders involved in a bullying situation
- Learn the importance of taking responsibility
- Learn the meaning of the term Diffusion of Responsibility