More than just academics, a more healthy and holistic educational development program involves Social Emotional Learning (SEL). SEL is focused on developing essential skills, such as understanding and managing emotions (self-regulation), decision making and problem solving, as well as improvements in the ability to build positive relationships. In fact, the framework SEL provides has been demonstrated to improve success in school, work and life.
According to a meta-analysis conducted by the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL.org), students who participated in SEL programs showed an 11 percentile-point gain in academic achievement compared to those who did not.
SEL’s Potential
According to Jay Levin, founder and president of Equip Our Kids! and The California Social-Emotional Learning Alliance, when it comes to the challenges many kids are facing, “it’s not a lack of character but a lack of skills” that leads to delinquency.
With research linking SEL to reduced emotional distress, improved attitudes and behaviors, and lower rates of school dropout and disciplinary issues, implementing SEL techniques may lead to the development of healthier mental and emotional health in adolescents. When offered in schools, SEL can equip youth with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of life in seven key areas, each playing a crucial role in personal and social development.
Core Components of Social Emotional Learning
1. Self-Awareness: Recognizing one's emotions and feelings, values, strengths and limitations. Self-awareness helps individuals understand how their thoughts and feelings influence their behavior. It also fosters a growth mindset, enabling individuals to view challenges as opportunities for growth.
2. Self-Management: Self-management skills are essential for maintaining focus, resilience, and motivation. This includes regulating one’s emotions, thoughts, actions and behaviors in different situations.
3. Social Awareness: Understanding and empathizing with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures, is the essence of social awareness. It involves recognizing social norms and ethical standards and appreciating the perspectives of others which fosters inclusivity and respect in social interactions.
4. Relationship Skills: Skills in effective communication, active listening, cooperation, negotiation, conflict resolution and seeking and offering help when needed, assist individuals to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships.
5. Responsible Decision-Making: Making ethical, constructive choices about personal and social behavior is critical for responsible decision-making. It includes considering the well-being of oneself and others, evaluating the consequences of various actions and reflecting on the ethical implications of decisions.
6. Problem-Solving: Identifying and solving problems and analyzing situations from a reflective sensibility.
7. Growth Mindset: The belief and accompanying learned skills to set goals and grow your talents with persistent efforts; embracing challenges and setbacks as crucial learning opportunities.
Through these core areas, SEL encompasses the process through which individuals acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.
Impact of Social Emotional Learning
The impact of SEL extends beyond the classroom, influencing various aspects of life, including
• Academic Achievement: Schools that implement SEL programs report higher academic performance, increased attendance and lower dropout rates. By creating a supportive and positive learning environment, SEL helps students thrive academically.
• Mental Health: SEL programs have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to better overall mental health.
• Workplace Success: In the professional realm, SEL skills are highly valued. Employers seek individuals who can work well in teams, communicate effectively and adapt to changing circumstances. Additionally, employees with strong SEL skills tend to have better job satisfaction and work-life balance.
• Community Engagement: Engaged and empathetic citizens are more likely to participate in community service, support social causes and promote inclusivity and social justice.
Implementing Social Emotional Learning
By working together, schools, families, and communities can create a cohesive and supportive framework for implementing SEL. Schools can play a pivotal role in integrating SEL into the curriculum and creating a supportive learning environment. To do so, professional development for teachers is essential to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively deliver SEL instruction. SEL initiatives involving parents and caregivers help reinforce these skills at home. Community partnerships can also enhance SEL implementation by providing resources, support and opportunities for real-world application of SEL skills.
Looking Forward
Social Emotional Learning is a transformative approach that empowers individuals with the skills needed to navigate life's challenges and opportunities. SEL lays the foundation for personal, academic and professional success. By understanding and promoting SEL, we can create a more empathetic, resilient and connected society.
Whether you are an educator, parent or community member, there are numerous ways to support and get involved in SEL initiatives, contributing to the development of well-rounded, emotionally intelligent individuals. Community organizations, afterschool programs and local businesses can support SEL by providing additional opportunities for social and emotional learning. This can include mentoring programs, community service projects and extracurricular activities that foster teamwork, empathy and leadership skills.
Together we can cultivate a generation of emotionally intelligent, empathetic and resilient individuals ready to contribute positively to the world.
For more information on SEL, including a free child and parent emotional health toolkit, as well as SEL tips to use at home, visit EQuipOurKids.org or CASEL.org.
Debra Thomas is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in addiction and trauma including the use of EMDR therapy. Contact her at DebThomasMFT@gmail.com, 805.270.7909 or visit DebThomasMFT.com to learn more.
"It’s not a lack of character but a lack of skills” that leads to delinquency.