THE ROLE OF PEERS IN SHAPING CHILDREN'S SOCIAL EMPATHY IN MEDAN SUNGGAL DISTRICT

Abstract

As the next generation, students require adequate preparation to navigate life. This foundation can be acquired from family, school, and the community. Within the family, children who have a profound need for attention, meaningful relationships, and parental role models rely on their parents to lay the primary groundwork for their abilities and character. Throughout their school years, children are significantly influenced by the school environment; consequently, peer interactions play a pivotal role in shaping a child's character and social empathy. Observing the prevalence of "poor character" in the lives of adults, it is inevitable that children and adolescents may mimic these attitudes and behaviors, adopting them as models. This is deeply concerning, as it leaves young people confused about which values to choose and uphold valuesessential for their own well-being and the future of the nation. Therefore, the researcher identifies a need to examine the role of peers in shaping children's social empathy.