Self-Esteem and Empathy among Children Actively Involved in Music

Abstract

In an art project we studied empathy and self-esteem of 25 young musicians who played piano or violin 6 yr. and 30 children from regular school. Mean age of both groups was 12 yr. Methods used are the modified Mehrabian and Epstein Empathy Scale and the Battle Self-esteem Scale, Form B. An active interest in music seems to improve self-esteem (especially total self-esteem, general self-esteem, and social self-esteem scores). The music group had high self-esteem (total score) and the 30 controls moderate self-esteem. An active interest in music seems to promote empathy, too. Self-expression via music encourages students to take more responsibility, to concentrate, and as such to improve an inner self-control although playing an instrument works in the service of the ego.