The mediating role of theory of mind in the relationship between perspective taking and empathy

This study was conducted to determine the mediating role of theory of mind in the relationship between perspective-taking and empathy. This study was conducted with children aged 60–72 months. The data collection tools used were a demographic information form, the Children's Perspective-Taking Test, the Children's Empathy Scale, and the Theory of Mind Task Battery (TOMTB). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the Children's Perspective-Taking Test and Theory of Mind Task Battery scores; between the Children's Empathy Scale and Theory of Mind Task Battery scores; and between empathy and perspective-taking scores (p < 0.05). Even without including theory of mind in the model, it was determined that perspective-taking had a positive and statistically significant effect on empathy. When the direct effect was evaluated in the mediating model, it was determined that the effect of perspective-taking on empathy continued to be positive and significant.