Final answer:
The development of empathy in a child is part of their cognitive and psychosocial growth and is closely associated with the development of cognitive empathy and theory-of-mind. Cognitive empathy increases during adolescence, especially with support from empathetic parents. As children's self-concept matures, so does their capacity for empathy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The development of empathy is apparent in a child's cognitive and psychosocial development including their ability to understand others' perspectives and express concern for others, known as cognitive empathy. This form of empathy begins to increase significantly during adolescence. Studies indicate that girls begin to see a rise in cognitive empathy around age 13, while for boys this increase typically begins around age 15. Moreover, teens with supportive fathers, who engage in discussions about their concerns, tend to be better at taking others' perspectives.
During middle childhood, children already exhibit some elements of empathy. For instance, they may show care towards a peer who is hurt, indicating a rudimentary form of empathy. The development of empathy is also tightly linked with the concept of theory-of-mind (TOM), which typically emerges between 3 and 5 years old as children start to realize that others may have different thoughts, feelings, and beliefs.
Furthermore, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another continues to evolve as the child's self-concept becomes more complex. From infancy, when a child recognizes themself in a mirror, to later stages when they solve problems jointly and negotiate socially, empathy grows and transforms. This growth in empathy is crucial for effective social interaction and is a milestone in a child's development.