Date
4-7-2026
Department
School of Behavioral Sciences
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)
Chair
Kelly Gorbett
Keywords
preschoolers, emotional dysregulation, empathy, Christian, qualitative study, phenomenological
Disciplines
Psychology
Recommended Citation
Mendez, Christine, "A Phenomenological Approach to Exploring Emotional Dysregulation and Lack of Empathy in Preschoolers from Low Income Christian and Non-Christian Families" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8157.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8157
Abstract
Children often apply the adaptive skills they learn at home to the classroom in preschool, marking their first experience in structured environments. Two constructs, emotional regulation and empathy, are behaviors necessary for a preschooler’s development. However, the absence of socially desirable contexts can lead to preschoolers developing academic and behavioral deficits. Existing literature does not explore the spiritual, social and cultural practices of the familial and academic environments of preschoolers from disadvantaged groups. Earlier studies from higher socioeconomic levels suggest that poor attachment during infancy, parenting skills, trauma or lack of age-appropriate learning opportunities are conditions that deteriorate regulation and empathy. In contrast, the spiritual, social, and cultural beliefs and practices of low-income Christian and non-Christian families have not been examined within the constructs. In this study, a hermeneutic phenomenological approach is used to examine behaviors in preschoolers by presenting a hypothetical vignette of “Calen,” a preschooler. The researchers conducted a qualitative study using interviews with teachers, preschool personnel, and both Christian and non-Christian families of preschoolers from low-income backgrounds to learn more about their lived experiences Theoretical frameworks and a literature review are presented, and a methodology is discussed, with the findings revealing six prevalent themes. Themes are discussed within theoretical and biblical foundations and then followed by implications, limitations and recommendations for future research. Findings suggest that caregivers believe that social barriers can cause emotional dysregulation and a lack of empathy.
