Impact of the Roots of Empathy Program on Social-Emotional Learning: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• In Event: Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: Social Emotional Interventions in Elementary Schools

Abstract

Roots of Empathy (ROE) is a universal, school-based social and emotional learning programme aimed at increasing prosocial behaviour and reducing difficult behaviour. This paper reports the findings of a cluster randomized controlled trial of the effects of ROE on 8-9 year old children. 74 schools and 1,181 children took part. The findings provide evidence that ROE is effective in increasing prosocial behaviour (g=+.20, p=.043) and some potential evidence that it may reduce difficult behaviour (g=-.15, p=.070). While ROE was found to lead to improvements in positive behaviour, these were not associated with improvements in empathy or other social and emotional learning outcomes.

Authors

• Paul Connolly, Queen's University - Belfast

• Sarah Miller, Queen's University - Belfast

• Seaneen Sloan, Queen's University - Belfast

• Aideen Gildea, Queen's University