Human beings’ sense of morality begins early, National Public Radio (NPR) recently reported. In fact, researchers say, children as young as two know the difference between right and wrong.
Dr. Judi Smetana, professor of psychology at the University of Rochester, is researching the development of children’s moral and social knowledge. “The moral universe begins very early for young children,” Smetana told NPR. “We are born with some very rudimentary sense of empathy hardwired in.”
So is it nature or nurture that sets the moral compass? Family advocates say it’s some of both.
“Kids do have a moral compass—even from a very early age,” said Dr. Bill Maier, psychologist in residence at Focus on the Family. “The Bible says very clearly that the law is written on our hearts. But children’s moral compass is undeveloped, and it needs to be guided and directed by their parents.”
