Myötätädollisia

Myötätädollisia is a Finnish term that translates to "empathic dolls" or "empathy dolls." These are not typical toys but rather therapeutic tools designed to help individuals, particularly children, develop and practice empathy. The dolls are often crafted to be simple and somewhat neutral in appearance, allowing the user to project their own emotions and experiences onto them.

The core principle behind Myötätädollisia is to provide a tangible object onto which feelings and social situations can be externalized. A child or individual might use the doll to act out scenarios, express difficult emotions they are struggling to verbalize, or explore the feelings of others. For example, a child might use the doll to show how they feel when a friend is sad, or to practice responding to a situation where someone is angry.

These dolls are frequently used in therapeutic settings, such as play therapy, child psychology, and educational environments, particularly for children experiencing developmental challenges, trauma, or difficulties with social-emotional learning. The neutral appearance encourages imaginative play and allows for a safe space to explore complex emotional landscapes. By interacting with the Myötätädollisia, individuals can gain a better understanding of their own emotions and those of others, fostering the development of crucial social and emotional skills. The emphasis is on the process of interaction and emotional exploration rather than the doll itself as a standalone toy.