What affective characteristic emerges in children during early childhood?

During early childhood, strong self-awareness and self-conscious emotions become prominent as children begin to understand their own feelings and how those feelings relate to others. This developmental stage often involves the emergence of emotions such as guilt, shame, and pride, linking directly to their self-concept and social interactions. Children start to recognize that their actions can affect others, leading to an increased understanding of social norms and expectations.

This heightened self-awareness allows them to develop empathy, as they become more attuned to the emotions of their peers and adults around them. It represents a critical evolution in emotional intelligence that serves as a foundation for more complex emotional interactions as they grow older. Understanding this characteristic is essential for educators and parents to support positive emotional development in children during this crucial time.