Supportive student-teacher relationships can improve student engagement, behavior, and learning. In contrast, antagonistic relationships can generate harmful cycles: students misbehave; teachers punish students; students respond by acting out. These cycles lead to suspended students, frustrated teachers, and disrupted classrooms.
Numerous studies show empathic teaching leads to better, more equitable outcomes. For example, teachers who were randomly assigned to learn empathic teaching practices became better equipped to support positive behavior: their students' suspension rates dropped by 50%. Empathic Instruction is an innovative program that makes it simple for districts to put this powerful research into practice.
Article by Drs. Okonofua and Walton, “How to Cut Disparities in School Suspension Rates: An empathic mindset in teachers cuts racial disparities in suspension rates.” (2022)
Dr. Okonofua in an interview with Melissa Harris-Perry (2015)
Article by David L. Kirp. "Don't Suspend Students. Empathize." (2017)
Article by Sarah D. Sparks. "How Feeling Respected Transforms a Student's Relationship to School" (2016)
Article by Rebecca Klein. "The Key to Reducing School Suspensions? Treat Kids With Empathy, Says Study" (2016)
See the Empathic Instruction Research & Media List for more media coverage and links to scientific studies.
The Empathic Instruction Guide provides a quick overview of the research, service options, and implementation steps and timelines.
Contact us to learn about bringing Empathic Instruction to your district or school.
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