Young Singaporeans believe that it is important to lend a helping hand to the underprivileged, but few translate this belief into action, according to a survey by World Vision Singapore. The humanitarian group found that 9 in 10 respondents agreed with statements about empathy and gratitude, but 3 in 4 rarely do something to help. A common reason cited was a lack of time and money; yes, we’re better off investing these resources elsewhere to get results in life.
People will be influenced by “demonstrative behavior from close family and friends” to translate empathy into action, said National University of Singapore sociologist Ho Kong Chong in an interview with The Straits Times. Unfortunately, there’s a dearth of such empathetic surrounding youths; less than 10 per cent of respondents strongly agreed when asked if they are surrounded by people who demonstrate empathy.
World Vision Singapore organises several programmes each year, such as the annual 30-Hour Famine Camp, to encourage young people to actively participate in helping the less fortunate. There’s no doubt that the best way to truly empathise with others is to literally put yourself in their shoes, in this case starving yourself. After all, actions speak louder than words.
Photo: Willing Hearts Facebook page
Young Singaporeans believe that it is important to lend a helping hand to the underprivileged, but few translate this belief into action, according to a survey by World Vision Singapore. The humanitarian group found that 9 in 10 respondents agreed with statements about empathy and gratitude, but 3 in 4 rarely do something to help. A common reason cited was a lack of time and money; yes, we’re better off investing these resources elsewhere to get results in life.
People will be influenced by “demonstrative behavior from close family and friends” to translate empathy into action, said National University of Singapore sociologist Ho Kong Chong in an interview with The Straits Times. Unfortunately, there’s a dearth of such empathetic surrounding youths; less than 10 per cent of respondents strongly agreed when asked if they are surrounded by people who demonstrate empathy.
World Vision Singapore organises several programmes each year, such as the annual 30-Hour Famine Camp, to encourage young people to actively participate in helping the less fortunate. There’s no doubt that the best way to truly empathise with others is to literally put yourself in their shoes, in this case starving yourself. After all, actions speak louder than words.
Photo: Willing Hearts Facebook page