Psychological Exploration of Empathy in Parents of Children with Special Needs at Ramadhani Nature School

Abstract

The aim of this research is to determine the concept of empathy among parents of children with special needs at the Ramadhani School Nature, which includes parents' understanding of empathy, aspects of empathy, factors that influence empathy, indicators of empathy, and forms of empathy. This research uses qualitative research methods with a phenomenological model. Data collection using interviews and observations. The number of informants was 4 parents of children with special needs who attended Ramadhani School Nature. Data analysis using narrative analysis methods. The results of the research are, first, parents' understanding of empathy, that empathy is the ability to feel what other people feel and take action to help other people who are in trouble. Second, aspects of empathy include love, concern, and relief. Third, factors that influence empathy are environmental and family factors. Fourth, the indicators that emerge are love, trust, emotional control, attention, cooperation, prayer, surrender and self- acceptance. Fifth, forms of empathy include meeting children's needs, being grateful, quality time with children, providing physical touch, and emotional validation. Researchers have concluded that empathy from parents, along with the environment and family, will speed up the therapy process and psychological well-being for children with special needs.