Teaching the foundation of optimism, positive self talk, mindfulness and well being to grade school children
Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Many children struggle with issues of low self esteem, stress and lack of well being which can lead to conditions such as depression (Lewisohn et al, 1993). These issues not only effect children personally but they also significantly contribute to poor academic performance in school (Pfeiffer & Reddy, 1998). Conversely, the more that children can experience a sense of well being, the more improved will be their ability to excel at school, which will ultimately result in better citizens entering into adulthood (Seligman, Ernst, Gillham, Reivich, & Linkins, 2009). \n\nThis project will offer elementary school children tools for fostering more optimism and well being in their lives, for challenging and changing their thoughts to create a more positive explanatory style, and for achieving a sense of self-compassion and self-acceptance, which will ultimately increase their sense of well-being. The literature review includes research on positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and the practice of mindfulness, as well as research on the effectiveness of social learning and entertainment-education. This project proposes an interactive children's assembly presentation that can be performed at elementary schools, with the aim of educating children about the benefits of positive emotions such as optimism, the benefits of positive self-talk and of the practice of mindfulness meditation.
Author: Jennifer MacNamara-Mahoney
Language: English
Subfield: Applied Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2342315990