Submission Type
Poster
Abstract
Empathy involves the promotion of constructive inter-group relations through perspective-taking and prosocial action (Taylor, 2020). Supporting youth empathy is vital in deterring the cyclical nature of violence, as children comprise the future generation (Taylor, 2020). Indeed, children often act as resources rather than recipients in peace-building efforts (Taylor, 2020). Therefore, further investigation into the mechanisms that underlie empathy in youth is warranted. Camp Stomping Grounds (CSG) is a youth summer camp that promotes radical empathy through restorative practices, implementing unbounded creativity, and encouraging autonomy in daily scheduling. Time at CSG has been shown to enhance empathy in campers (Merrilees, Taber-Thomas, & Klotz, 2023). In light of CSG’s mission, it would be valuable to examine whether long-term campers experience heightened empathy when compared to campers who have spent less time at CSG. Data were collected at CSG on camper variables through a post-camp survey. By analyzing data collected thus far, we may be able to draw conclusions on whether CSG fulfills its mission of promoting radical empathy in youth.
Recommended Citation
Dennis, Haley, "350-Do Campers who Spent More Years at Residential Summer Camp Focusing on Restorative Practices Report Higher Levels of Empathy?" (2024). GREAT Day Posters. 95.
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/great-day-symposium/great-day-2024/posters-2024/95
350-Do Campers who Spent More Years at Residential Summer Camp Focusing on Restorative Practices Report Higher Levels of Empathy?
Empathy involves the promotion of constructive inter-group relations through perspective-taking and prosocial action (Taylor, 2020). Supporting youth empathy is vital in deterring the cyclical nature of violence, as children comprise the future generation (Taylor, 2020). Indeed, children often act as resources rather than recipients in peace-building efforts (Taylor, 2020). Therefore, further investigation into the mechanisms that underlie empathy in youth is warranted. Camp Stomping Grounds (CSG) is a youth summer camp that promotes radical empathy through restorative practices, implementing unbounded creativity, and encouraging autonomy in daily scheduling. Time at CSG has been shown to enhance empathy in campers (Merrilees, Taber-Thomas, & Klotz, 2023). In light of CSG’s mission, it would be valuable to examine whether long-term campers experience heightened empathy when compared to campers who have spent less time at CSG. Data were collected at CSG on camper variables through a post-camp survey. By analyzing data collected thus far, we may be able to draw conclusions on whether CSG fulfills its mission of promoting radical empathy in youth.