The Effects of Time of Trauma on Empathy

• Melissa Perez Rangel, Psychology, University of Delaware

• Naomi Samimi- Sadeh, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware
• Anna Stumps, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware

One of the most crucial emotions that shape our behavior is empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, often by putting ourselves in their situation. It can often be shaped by many factors such as early relationships, environmental factors, and even cultural influences. In certain areas of study, an aspect that they are looking at is the impact of childhood abuse and neglect on the developing mind. Many studies have found that when a child is exposed to either situation, they will more times than likely develop a lower sense of empathy. A decreased level of empathy is often correlated to engaging in antisocial behavior such as vandalism or assault. As we grow older, we begin to build a sense of resiliency or are more developed within our emotions. Some studies have shown the opposite when compared to children. If an adult were to experience trauma, they would be more likely to increase their levels of empathy. My area of research wanted to focus on the comparison between a child and an adult that had experienced trauma. The purpose of this would be to understand the difference in how children and adults experience situations differently because of innate factors such as our sense of resiliency and developed emotional state. Upon further understanding, we may work towards preventing the onset of callous and cold behavior that could eventually lead to engagement in antisocial behaviors.