Compassion is the genuine care and concern for someone who is suffering, combined with a desire to support them in their distress. It involves not just understanding, but also actively offering assistance. Self-compassion is equally important and involves treating oneself with the same kindness and understanding that one would offer to a friend in need.
The All About Compassion handout covers both compassion for others and self-compassion and introduces practical examples of how to practice each. The reasons for practicing compassion are also included in the handout to encourage reflection.
Applying the tips from the handout may help kids and teens build stronger connections with others. Parents and teachers can motivate them to practice compassion by praising instances where they help their peers. Activities that promote helping others, such as community service projects, also make the concept of compassion more tangible.
This handout pairs well with our Compassion Worksheets for additional learning opportunities.
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References:
- Bluth, K., Mullarkey, M., & Lathren, C. (2018). Self-compassion: A potential path to adolescent resilience and positive exploration. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 27(9), 3037-3047. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-018-1125-1
- Colaianne, B. A., Lavelle, B. D., Small, M. L., & Roeser, R. W. (2022). Cultivating compassion for self and others: A school‐based pilot study for peer‐nominated caring adolescents. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 33(1), 169-187. https://doi.org/10.1111/jora.12795
- Kirby, J. N., Wilks, M., Green, M., Tanjitpiyanond, P., Chowdhury, N., Kirkland, K., & Nielsen, M. (2022). Testing the bounds of compassion in young children. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-545449/v2
- Talwar, V., Castellanos, M., & Bosacki, S. (2022). Self-compassion, social cognition, and self-affect in adolescence: A longitudinal study. Self and Identity, 22(1), 58-76. https://doi.org/10.1080/15298868.2022.2030400
- Mongrain, Myriam & Chin, Jacqueline & Shapira, Leah. (2011). Practicing Compassion Increases Happiness and Self-Esteem. Journal of Happiness Studies. 12. 963-981. 10.1007/s10902-010-9239-1.
