Students are introduced to the concept of self-compassion.
Objectives
Students will be able to:
- Define self-compassion, including what self-compassion is not
- Identify an experience when they have not demonstrated self-compassion and reframe
- Demonstrate their understanding of and ability to apply self-compassion through a role play
Materials
Computer and projector, TED Talk: The Space Between Self-Esteem and Self-Compassion; Optional: printouts of reflection questions, “If” statements, role play scenarios
Exercises
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5 mins |
OpeningDepending on the needs of the class, you can open with a journal prompt, short reading, guided meditation, or icebreaker. |
Refer to Dr. Kristin Neff’s web site for definitions and more information on self-compassion |
| 20 mins |
Framing Video + TED TalkIntroduce Dr. Kristin Neff’s video on self-compassion.
Video total runtime is 19 minutes. |
Consider cutting video to show core ideas if short of time. Additionally, you can cut some of the video and use more time for role plays at the end of the lesson. |
| 5 mins |
Video DebriefGuide students in a quick debrief of the big ideas of the video. Suggested discussion questions:
|
See Neff’s web site for more exercises |
| 3 mins |
Identifying the Unkind/Self-Critical MomentAsk students to spend 3 silent minutes identifying a time that they have been self-critical or unkind to themselves. Be sure to narrate that students can identify a period of time or a way in which they are commonly self-critical, if they do not have a single time. Additionally, create a safe space for students by assuring them that they will not be required to share these ideas, as they are personal. |
|
| 5 mins |
Practice Applying Self-CompassionAfter students have identified a time or times in which they have been self-critical, have them choose one (or more) of the following questions and [or have them follow Dr. Neff’s steps] apply self-compassion to that moment:
After students think through one or more of the questions above, have them complete this prompt: If I were practicing self-compassion, I would… |
Questions selected from this site
You can choose to have students complete these anonymously and hang them in the room, or collect them for credit. |
| 2 mins |
Pair ShareHave students share their “If” statements in pairs. (Optional: Invite students to share their “If” statement with the whole class, if they feel comfortable doing so.”) |
|
| 10 mins |
Role PlayIn closing, give students a scenario in which a person is not practicing self-compassion. Have students brainstorm a way in which this person can practice self-compassion and create a more positive outcome. Role plays can be acted out in groups of 2 or more. Suggested Scenarios:
|
Note: It may be common for students to create this scenario with a peer encouraging the person to be self-compassionate. This suggests that we need someone else to be present to remind us to practice self-compassion. Encourage student role plays to “think aloud” in such a way as to show how the person who was being unkind to themselves now is showing self-compassion. |
Criteria for Success/Formative Assessment
In the role plays, students will:
- Demonstrate a correct interpretation of self-compassion (i.e., not making excuses or blaming others, but rather practicing self-forgiveness, understanding, and empathy)
- Express 1 or more statements that demonstrate self-compassion
- Participate actively, thoughtfully, and respectfully in the role play exercise