Do you know what empathy is? Have you heard of it?
Empathy is the ability to feel emotions at a higher level, not only your own but also other people’s emotions. Empaths are people who do not judge and who are open. Because of this ability, empaths can be hurt.
The difference between empathy and compassion
The biggest misconception is that people equate it with compassion. The difference is that compassion is a natural trait that almost everyone possesses, while empathy is a skill. Compassion is when we empathize with other people’s emotions, for example when someone is sad and we take part in that sadness. Then we try to help the person and that’s all. While empathy is a skill that helps us understand other people’s feelings and even get into their skin. With body language, gestures and facial expressions, empathy helps us to recognize the other person’s feelings.
Empathy as a School Subject in Denmark
Since 1993, empathy has been a compulsory subject in schools in Denmark. Maybe that is why in the UN report from a few years ago this country was named one of the happiest in the world. There are many reasons why Denmark has introduced empathy in schools. Empathy has been shown to help build better relationships, reduce peer bullying and help with work. Empathetic teenagers are much more focused on tasks and goals than teenagers who do not have developed empathy.
Given that all education in Denmark is very progressive and life – oriented, it is not surprising that this subject is found in schools. One hour a week is devoted to empathy lessons, and the subject is taught to children aged 6 to 16 years. During classes, students discuss their problems, whether they are school – related or not. Then the whole class is looking for solutions. The basis of the solutions is in careful listening and understanding. If it happens that there are no problems that can be discussed, students can spend time enjoying and relaxing. It is something that the Danes call “hige”, and for which there is no appropriate translation in our language. Simply put, “hyge” is about creating a cozy, warm and intimate atmosphere.
Teamwork is the key to learning empathy. The results of the research show that 60% of the tasks in Danish schools are performed with the help of teamwork. Individuals do not stand out, but work to help less talented children who need help. By learning together, children can learn much more than when they compete with each other for better grades and more attention.
Our education is not even close to Danish and it is certain that soon we will not have the opportunity for our children to learn such important things, but we hope that with this story we have inspired ourselves, in the family, to dedicate time to the Danish way of upbringing and care. Your children will be grateful to you and will more easily face everything that life will bring them in the future.
