Children exposed to harsh environments are at higher risk for destructive short and long-term effects on physical and psychological well-being, and these effects may be mediated by empathy. In this study, we are investigating the effects of harsh rearing environments on empathy in young children and the biological correlates of these processes, focusing on the role of the hormones oxytocin (social hormone) and cortisol (stress hormone). After COVID-19 struck, we followed up with the families that participated in the study to examine the effects of COVID-19 on families' and children's mental health. We are currently analyzing the data already collected.