Heads reject claims that religious children are more selfish

CATHOLIC headteachers have condemned a report that claimed children from religious families are less kind than those without faith backgrounds.

The report, published last week in Current Biology, concluded religious beliefs had a negative influence on children’s kindness.

Sarah Raffray, headmistress at St Augustine’s Priory in Ealing, said the report “trivialised” what should be a much more complicated conversation.

“I actually think most children feel naturally compelled to be kind, which doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with faith. But I think religion gives a framework to this, and more of an impetus to be kind and generous.”

Academics from seven universities assessed 1,200 Christian, Muslim and non-religious children, aged between five and 12, in order to ascertain the connection between religion and morality. Children studied were from the US, Canada, China Jordan, Turkey and South Africa; 43 per cent were Muslim, 24 per cent Christian and 27.6 per cent non-religious. Children from the UK were not included in the study.

Sean Maher, headmaster at Richard Challoner School in New Malden, said the report was “completely contrary” to his 15 years’ experience in the faith education sector.

“I’m inspired by the children. When I look at the charitable activities of many in the school I wonder how someone could come up with a report like this,” he said.

The report also said that religious children were more judgemental.

Mr Maher said: “I don’t think judgemental is right. They might be more thoughtful, more reflective, and guided by their conscience: but I think that’s a good thing.”