The role of parental influence on compassion development in 3-5-year-old children: a study of parent-child play interactions and children's views of compassionate behavior

Abstract

This qualitative study explored children’s views of compassionate behavior and the role of parental influence on the compassion development of 3–5-year-old children through parent-child play interactions in the urban slum community of a slum in Dhaka city. The research utilized in-depth interviews, observations, and perspective-taking tasks with six parent-child pairs to understand parental perceptions of compassion, how parents support its development, and how children interpret compassionate behaviors. Findings revealed varied understandings among parents, from associating compassion with basic caregiving to deeper emotional nurturing. Socioeconomic constraints and stressful environmental conditions notably limited parental involvement in play, thus affecting opportunities to foster compassion. Nonetheless, some parents utilized storytelling and role-playing effectively during play to encourage compassion. Children's understanding and expression of compassionate behaviors also varied, highlighting both proactive and passive approaches. Exploring this topic is critical because early childhood is a foundational stage for shaping emotional intelligence and moral development, particularly in under-resourced environments where daily survival challenges can overshadow positive social values. The study underscores the necessity of targeted educational initiatives and supportive community programs to enhance parental awareness and engagement in compassion-focused activities. It emphasizes policy recommendations for integrating structured play interventions to nurture compassion among children in resource-constrained environments.