Topics to help with promoting self and social awareness at the high school level:
Self Worth and Identity
Self image is how we perceive ourselves and determine our sense of self worth, whereas our identity is how we present ourselves. Both have many influencing factors, which is why providing students with healthy tools and strategies to promote and monitor their own self worth is important for the maintenance of emotional well being.
Body Image
A great topic to incorporate media literacy and explore how the media influences our concept of the ideal body and what is deemed as beautiful.
Gender Identity and Expression
Respecting the gender diversity in a school community and building an environment that is respectful, accepting, and free from discrimination by educating students on this subject.
Gender Stereotyping
Gender stereotyping occurs when we consciously or unconsciously assign traits, characteristics and expectations to a gender. This is a great topic for discussion when exploring media literacy.
Seeking Approval
Often we can get caught up in the web of trying to fit in and seeking the approval of our peers. Balancing a healthy pursuit of belonging while remaining authentic to ourselves is what we want our students to strive for.
The Pressure of Perfect
None of us are perfect. The drive for perfection, whether it be with academics, appearance or athletics, can be a damaging pursuit. The goal for socially and emotionally healthy students is self acceptance.
Positive and Negative Self Talk
Students will compare positive and negative self talk as well as the concept of automatic thought. They will brainstorm their own list of healthy ways to promote positive self worth.
Understanding our Emotions
Being self aware and socially aware involve being able to identify and label the many emotions we experience on a regular basis. Looking at the possible and diverse causes for these emotions is helpful in developing emotional intelligence.
Understanding Our Brains
Understanding how our brains work not only leads to greater self awareness, but can assist students in managing their behaviour and self regulation.
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