Potential of observational learning to induce empathy and self – efficacy in pre-adolescent Indian orphan minors

Abstract

The study explores the potential of Observational Learning as a technique to induce an understanding of the basic soft skills among children who belong to an orphanage. The study considers two soft skills namely empathy and self-efficacy. The qualitative technique of a semi-structured interview was used after a session of observation with the model. The sample constituted of 12 children (6 males and 6 females) between the age group of 6-12 years of age. The non-probability technique of convenient sampling was used. Thematic analysis was carried out on the collected data. Themes related to empathy (Love, kindness, caring and ability to think about/others) and Self-efficacy (Self-awareness, self-belief and self- regulation) were found out.