Empathy Levels, Self-Perceptions, and Play Interactions of Children Aged 60-72 Months in the Preschool Period

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between empathy levels, self-perceptions, and interactive play skills with peers in children during the preschool period. The study utilized a quantitative research design, specifically employing a correlational survey model. A total of 128 children attending educational institutions in the Uskudar district of Istanbul, Turkey, were included in the study. The participants were selected using the convenience sampling method. The data collection instruments used in the study were the "Demographic Information Form," "Empathy Scale for Children," "Purdue Self-Concept Scale for Preschool Children," and the " Penn Interactive Peer- Playing Scale-Teacher Form". The study's results revealed a moderate positive correlation between children's empathy skill levels and play interactions. Additionally, a moderate negative correlation was found between empathy skill levels and disengagement from play. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between the sub-dimension of maternal acceptance, which is one of the components of the self-perception scale, and play interactions, while a negative correlation was identified between scores related to play disruption and disengagement. However, no significant relationship was found between the other sub-dimensions of the self-perception scale, namely social, academic, and physical competence, and play skills.