Elyse Bensusan’s work bridges the worlds of psychology and social impact. Her belief that “caring heals both giver and receiver” inspired her to expand her reach through philanthropy, writing, and mentorship — touching lives far beyond the counseling space.

A study 20 years in the making was recently released that found a definite link between children’s social and emotional skills in kindergarten and their successes in early adulthood. 

“Children who were helpful and shared in kindergarten were more likely to have graduated college and have a full-time job at age 25. The children who had problems resolving conflicts, sharing, cooperating and listening as kindergartners were less likely to have finished high school and college, and were more likely to have substance abuse problems and run-ins with the law.”

This study gives further validation to the importance of teaching your children empathy and empathy-related skills at a young age. 

This summer, empathy has triumphed. In the United States, we have seen the legalization of gay marriage, the demise of the confederate flag, and the validation of the Affordable Care Act. The costs may have been great and the journey may have been long, but in the end the American people were able to come together and recognize the needs and challenges of other men and women in order to make this country a better place for everyone to live in. Regardless of varying political beliefs, I think we can all agree that this progressive and unifying summer has been one for the books. This summer, we have seen the true power of empathy and how it can lead to great change.

Check out this interview between Roman Krznaric and former Ku Klux Klan leader C.P. Ellis. Imagine the possibilities of the power of empathy if it can destroy the prejudices of a KKK member towards African Americans. Learn more from Roman’s blog: http://www.romankrznaric.com/outrospection/2015/06/23/3315

Check out this interview between Roman Krznaric and former Ku Klux Klan leader C.P. Ellis. Imagine the possibilities of the power of empathy if it can destroy the prejudices of a KKK member towards African Americans. Learn more from Roman’s blog: http://www.romankrznaric.com/outrospection/2015/06/23/3315