Understanding the self

UNIT-3

Some Common Yogasanas in Practice

1. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

Description:
Tadasana is a basic standing pose and the foundation for many other asanas. It involves standing upright with feet together, hands by the side or stretched overhead, and the body aligned straight.

How to perform:
Stand straight, keep the spine erect, raise your arms overhead, interlock your fingers, stretch your body upwards and stand on your toes.

Benefits:

Improves body posture.
Enhances height in children.
Increases balance and stability.
Strengthens thighs, knees, and ankles.
Promotes mental clarity and focus.

2. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)

Description:
Vrikshasana is a balancing posture that imitates the graceful, firm stance of a tree. It helps develop balance and concentration.

How to perform:
Stand straight, shift your weight to one leg, place the sole of the other foot on the inner thigh, and raise your arms overhead in a prayer position.

Benefits:

Improves balance and coordination.
Strengthens legs and back.
Enhances body awareness and concentration.
Tones leg muscles.
Improves neuromuscular coordination.

3. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

Description:
Bhujangasana resembles a cobra with its hood raised. It’s performed lying on the stomach and lifting the chest upward.

How to perform:
Lie on your stomach, place your palms under your shoulders, inhale and lift your upper body while keeping your elbows slightly bent.

Benefits:

Strengthens the spine and lower back.
Opens the chest and lungs.
Reduces stress and fatigue.
Helps with respiratory problems.
Improves digestion and relieves constipation.

4. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)

Description:
This asana involves sitting on the ground with legs stretched forward and bending the upper body to touch the toes.

How to perform:
Sit on the floor with legs extended, inhale deeply, and then exhale while bending forward to reach the feet with your hands.

Benefits:

Stretches the spine, shoulders, and hamstrings.
Stimulates internal organs, especially the liver and kidneys.
Reduces anxiety and fatigue.
Improves digestion.
Helps in relieving menstrual discomfort.

5. Balasana (Child’s Pose)

Description:
Balasana is a resting pose that provides relaxation to the back and mind. It is often used between strenuous poses.

How to perform:
Sit on your knees, bend forward until your forehead touches the floor, and stretch your arms forward or keep them alongside the body.

Benefits:

Calms the mind and reduces stress.
Gently stretches the hips, thighs, and ankles.
Relieves lower back and neck pain.
Promotes a sense of relaxation and security.
Useful in managing anxiety and fatigue.

Some Uncommon Yogasanas in Practice

1. Mayurasana (Peacock Pose)

Description:
Mayurasana involves balancing the entire body on the palms with elbows pressing into the abdomen. It symbolizes strength and control, just like a peacock standing tall.

How to perform:
Sit on your knees, place your palms on the floor with fingers pointing backward, bring your elbows close to your abdomen, lift your legs and torso off the floor while balancing on your palms.

Benefits:

Strengthens arms, shoulders, and wrists.
Stimulates digestion and detoxifies the body.
Increases willpower and focus.
Tones abdominal organs.
Builds core strength and balance.

2. Kurmasana (Tortoise Pose)

Description:
Kurmasana resembles a tortoise withdrawing into its shell. It’s a deep forward bending asana that promotes inner peace and flexibility.

How to perform:
Sit with legs extended and spread wide, bend forward with arms sliding under the knees, stretch your torso forward and rest your forehead on the floor.

Benefits:

Increases hip and hamstring flexibility.
Calms the mind and relieves stress.
Improves digestion.
Stimulates the abdominal and pelvic region.
Promotes introspection and emotional balance.

3. Karnapidasana (Ear Pressure Pose)

Description:
In this pose, the knees are brought beside the ears while lying on the back, symbolizing the act of closing out the external world to achieve inner peace.

How to perform:
Start from Halasana (plough pose), bend the knees and place them on the floor beside your ears, keeping arms on the floor or clasped behind the back.

Benefits:

Relieves back and neck tension.
Calms the nervous system.
Enhances spinal flexibility.
Stimulates the thyroid gland.
Promotes mental relaxation.

4. Eka Pada Koundinyasana (One-Legged Sage Koundinya's Pose)

Description:
A challenging arm balance pose named after the sage Koundinya. It requires strength, flexibility, and focus.

How to perform:
From a lunge, twist the torso and place the hands on the floor, lift the back leg and balance the front leg on your arms, extending both legs.

Benefits:

Strengthens wrists, arms, and core.
Improves concentration and coordination.
Enhances flexibility in hips and legs.
Builds confidence and body control.
Activates abdominal muscles and balance.

5. Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose)

Description:
A restorative inversion where the legs are placed vertically against a wall while lying on the back. It promotes deep relaxation.

How to perform:
Lie on your back near a wall, extend your legs upward along the wall while keeping the hips close to the base of the wall, relax your arms by your side.

Benefits:

Improves blood circulation and reduces leg fatigue.
Relieves stress, anxiety, and mild depression.
Reduces swelling in legs and feet.
Enhances lymphatic drainage.
Calms the mind and helps in better sleep.

1. Meaning of Yoga

Origin and Etymology

The word Yoga is derived from the ancient Sanskrit root “Yuj”, which means “to join,” “to unite,” or “to connect.” In spiritual terms, it refers to the union of the individual self (Atman) with the universal consciousness (Brahman). Yoga is an age-old practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago, deeply rooted in Indian philosophy and culture.

Definition of Yoga

Yoga is a holistic discipline that integrates the body, mind, and spirit. It is not merely physical exercise but a complete system that includes:

Asanas (physical postures) – to maintain bodily health and flexibility.
Pranayama (breathing techniques) – to control the life force or energy (prana).
Dhyana (meditation) – to calm the mind and develop inner awareness.
Yama and Niyama (moral disciplines) – to live a righteous life.
Samadhi (state of bliss or enlightenment) – the final goal of yoga.

According to Patanjali, the sage who systematized Yoga into a philosophy,

"Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind" (Yoga Chitta Vritti Nirodha).

UNIT- I

1. Who Am I? (Detailed Explanation)

Introduction: The Journey Within

“Who am I?” is not just a simple question—it is the core of human self-exploration. It is a philosophical and psychological inquiry into our existence, thoughts, feelings, values, and purpose. This question encourages us to look beyond surface identities like name, age, and profession, and examine our inner world—our beliefs, motivations, and sense of self.

Understanding oneself is essential for personal growth, emotional well-being, and building meaningful relationships. It also lays the foundation for self-confidence, self-discipline, and decision-making.

Dimensions of the Self

1. Physical Identity

This includes your name, age, gender, appearance, and physical abilities or disabilities.
It is the most visible and commonly recognised aspect of identity.
Example: “I am Irshad, 25 years old, male, and a student of education.”

2. Personal/Emotional Identity

Refers to your personality traits, values, feelings, and emotional patterns.
Are you introverted or extroverted? Calm or energetic? Curious or cautious?
It includes how you react to situations, how you manage stress, and how you view life.
Example: “I am a calm and observant person. I believe in honesty and respect.”

3. Social Identity

This is shaped by your roles and relationships in society, such as being a son/daughter, friend, student, or teacher.
It includes how others perceive you and how you interact with people around you.
Example: “I am a student, a friend, and a teacher at a coaching institute.”

4. Spiritual Identity

This aspect relates to your beliefs about life’s purpose, connection to a higher power, morality, and values.
It may be influenced by religion, philosophy, or personal beliefs.
It provides meaning and helps in guiding behaviour and choices.

5. Aspirational Identity

This is who you want to become in the future—your dreams, goals, and vision.
It reflects your passions, ambitions, and the life you want to build.
Example: “I aspire to be an inspiring and emotionally intelligent teacher who contributes to students' lives.”

How Do We Discover Who We Are?

Self-reflection – Spending time thinking about your feelings, behaviors, and experiences.
Journaling – Writing about daily thoughts, emotions, and life events can help track personal growth.
Feedback from others – Sometimes others notice qualities in us that we might not see ourselves.
Trying new things – Exploring new hobbies, activities, and roles helps uncover hidden talents and interests.
Mindfulness and meditation – Being present with your thoughts and feelings helps develop awareness and clarity.

Why Is It Important to Understand Yourself?

Builds self-confidence: When you know your strengths and limitations, you make better choices.
Improves relationships: You communicate better and form deeper connections with others.
Guides decision-making: Self-awareness helps you stay aligned with your values and goals.
Promotes emotional balance: Understanding your emotions helps you manage them in a healthy way.
Encourages self-acceptance: You begin to embrace your uniqueness rather than comparing yourself to others.

2. Individuals in Society with Different Identities: Gender, Relational, Cultural

Introduction: The Complexity of Human Identity

Every individual is a unique combination of different identities. These identities—such as gender, relational roles, and cultural backgrounds—shape how people understand themselves and how they interact with others. In a diverse society like ours, recognising and respecting these identities is essential for equality, empathy, and social harmony.

Identities are not fixed—they evolve with time, experiences, and social environments. Understanding identity helps us become more accepting, inclusive, and emotionally intelligent individuals.

1. Gender Identity

Definition:
Gender identity is how a person perceives themselves and what they identify as—male, female, transgender, non-binary, or other gender identities. It may or may not align with the sex assigned at birth.

Key Points:

Gender identity is personal and internal.
Society often assigns roles, behaviours, and expectations based on gender.
Gender stereotypes (like “boys don’t cry” or “girls are weak”) can harm emotional development and freedom.
Everyone has the right to express their gender in ways that feel authentic.

Importance of Gender Identity Awareness:

Promotes gender equality and respect.
Reduces discrimination and bullying.
Encourages freedom of expression and self-acceptance.

Example:
A girl who wants to become a cricketer or a boy who enjoys dancing—both should be encouraged to follow their interests regardless of gender norms.

2. Relational Identity

Definition:
Relational identity refers to the roles we play in relation to others, such as son, daughter, friend, teacher, student, or colleague. These roles influence our behaviour, responsibilities, and self-perception.

Key Points:

Relational identities change over time and vary in different situations.
We may behave differently as a sibling at home than as a student in class.
Each relationship teaches us values like empathy, loyalty, responsibility, and care.

Relational identity helps in:

Understanding our social responsibilities.
Building strong, supportive, and meaningful relationships.
Learning how to balance different roles in life.

Example:
A person may be a caring elder sibling at home, a disciplined student at school, and a humorous friend in social settings. Each role contributes to their complete identity.

3. Cultural Identity

Definition:
Cultural identity is shaped by the customs, language, religion, values, traditions, and heritage of the community a person belongs to. It influences how people think, communicate, and behave.

Key Points:

Cultural identity gives a sense of belonging and pride.
It teaches us morals, ethics, and a way of life.
It differs from region to region, making the world culturally rich and diverse.
Respecting cultural differences fosters tolerance and global harmony.

Importance of Cultural Awareness:

Helps avoid prejudice and stereotypes.
Promotes intercultural understanding.
Encourages cultural exchange and cooperation.

Example:
An individual who speaks Hindi at home, follows Islamic traditions, and celebrates Indian festivals like Diwali or Eid carries a unique cultural identity that blends language, religion, and traditions.

Why Is It Important to Recognise These Identities?

Every identity deserves respect and dignity.
Recognising diversity encourages inclusion and fights discrimination.
It helps us appreciate uniqueness and promotes mutual understanding.
Teachers, peers, and communities must celebrate identity differences to create a safe and supportive environment.

3. Role of a Teacher in Emotional Development of Students

Teachers are not just knowledge providers—they are guides, mentors, and emotional anchors for their students. A teacher plays a vital role in helping students recognise, understand, and manage their emotions. This part is divided into two main subtopics:

A. Identifying and Observing Emotions of Students

Introduction:
Children often express their emotions through behaviour rather than words. Teachers, who spend a large part of the day with students, are in a unique position to observe emotional changes, patterns, and problems. Recognising these emotions early can help in preventing emotional distress and promoting healthy development.

How Teachers Identify Emotions:

By observing body language and facial expressions:
- Signs of anxiety: sweating, avoiding eye contact, fidgeting
- Signs of sadness: silence, slumped posture, tears
- Signs of excitement: bright eyes, energetic gestures, rapid speech
By noticing changes in behaviour:
- A normally active student becoming quiet and withdrawn
- A cheerful student suddenly losing interest in activities
- Aggressive or disruptive behaviour that may signal inner frustration
By listening actively to what students say:
- Students often express emotional challenges indirectly (“I hate school”, “No one talks to me”, etc.)
By building trusting relationships:
- Students are more likely to share their emotions with teachers who are kind, respectful, and non-judgmental.

Why It Is Important:

Early detection of emotional issues (like stress, bullying, family problems)
Prevents negative academic performance and behavioural problems
Helps provide timely counselling or parental involvement
Builds a safe and emotionally supportive classroom environment

B. Emotional Upliftment and Emotional Maturity of Students

Introduction:
Emotional upliftment refers to boosting a student's emotional well-being, while emotional maturity means the ability to manage and express emotions in healthy ways. Teachers are key influencers in nurturing both.

Role of a Teacher in Emotional Upliftment:

Creating a Positive Learning Environment
- Warm greetings, celebrating student achievements, and offering appreciation
- Encouraging creativity, curiosity, and individual expression
Being Empathetic and Supportive
- Listening to students' problems without criticism
- Offering comfort and hope during difficult times
Encouraging Peer Bonding
- Promoting group activities, team games, and collaborative learning
- Teaching students to support one another and avoid bullying
Integrating Emotional Learning
- Using stories, role-play, art, or discussion to help students explore emotions
- Talking about kindness, honesty, gratitude, and respect

Role of a Teacher in Developing Emotional Maturity:

Modeling Emotionally Mature Behavior
- Remaining calm during stressful moments
- Resolving conflicts peacefully
- Practising patience, forgiveness, and fairness
Encouraging Self-Awareness
- Helping students reflect on their feelings and reactions
- Asking open-ended questions like “Why do you think you felt that way?”
Teaching Emotional Vocabulary
- Helping students use words like “frustrated,” “disappointed,” or “excited” to describe feelings instead of just “happy” or “sad”
Teaching Self-Regulation Strategies
- Deep breathing, taking a break, journaling, or talking to someone trusted
Promoting Responsibility and Consequences

Helping students understand the impact of their actions on others
Encouraging them to take responsibility and learn from mistakes

UNIT- II

1) Self Exploration: Knowing One’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Introduction to Self-Exploration

Self-exploration is a deep and personal journey to understand who we are, what we believe, what we value, and how we function in the world. It is an internal process of reflection that helps us understand our personality, desires, goals, motivations, fears, habits, strengths, and weaknesses.

It is a lifelong process and forms the base of personal and professional development. Self-exploration helps in discovering our true identity, and brings clarity in decision-making and goal-setting.

Why Self-Exploration is Important in Life and the Teaching Profession

It builds self-awareness, which is essential for personal growth.
It enables better emotional regulation and self-control.
Helps in setting realistic goals according to one's abilities.
Improves confidence, communication, and interpersonal relationships.
Makes a teacher more empathetic and student-friendly.
A self-aware teacher is better equipped to understand the needs, challenges, and emotions of students.

Key Areas of Self-Exploration

Mental Abilities: How well you process information, solve problems, and make decisions.
Emotional Nature: How you handle stress, emotions, relationships, and failures.
Moral and Ethical Values: Your principles and sense of right or wrong.
Physical and Health Awareness: Understanding how your physical well-being affects your performance.
Career Interests and Talents: Knowing what excites you and where your potential lies.

Understanding Strengths

Strengths are the positive qualities, skills, or talents that make an individual unique and capable. Recognising strengths boosts motivation, helps in using one's full potential, and enhances performance in both academic and life situations.

Examples of Common Strengths:

Effective communication – Being able to convey thoughts clearly.
Patience and empathy – Helpful in relationships and teaching.
Problem-solving skills – Useful in complex or stressful situations.
Time management – Vital for balancing various responsibilities.
Leadership and decision-making – Key for classroom management.
Creativity and innovation – Helps in making learning interesting.

How to Identify Your Strengths:

Reflect on past achievements.
Ask for feedback from friends, teachers, or colleagues.
Notice what tasks you enjoy and perform well in.
Take self-assessment tools or personality tests (e.g., SWOT analysis, Johari window).

Understanding Weaknesses

Weaknesses are the limitations, habits, or traits that hinder growth or performance. Identifying weaknesses is a sign of strength, not failure. It shows a willingness to improve.

Common Weaknesses in Individuals:

Lack of confidence or self-doubt
Fear of public speaking
Disorganisation or poor time management
Easily distracted or poor focus
Inability to handle criticism
Low emotional control or a short temper

How to Identify Weaknesses:

Observe patterns of failure or stress.
Accept constructive criticism openly.
Reflect on uncomfortable situations.
Keep a journal to track emotional reactions and behaviour.

Role of Self-Reflection in Knowing Strengths and Weaknesses

Self-reflection is the habit of consciously thinking about your thoughts, actions, and reactions. It can be done through:

Journaling – Writing daily experiences and reactions.
Meditation or mindfulness – Being mentally present and observing your emotions.
Feedback seeking – Asking honest opinions from others.
SWOT Analysis – Identifying Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

Benefits of Knowing Strengths and Weaknesses

Benefits	Explanation
Goal clarity	Helps set realistic and achievable goals
Better career choices	Aligns interests with potential fields
Improved relationships	Better understanding of behaviour and emotions
Enhanced teaching effectiveness	A teacher who knows their strengths can better engage students
Personal satisfaction	Encourages self-acceptance and confidence

2) Personality Development Through Positive and Negative Strokes

What is Personality Development?

Personality development is the process of improving one’s behaviour, attitude, communication skills, emotional intelligence, and overall appearance to become a confident and effective individual. It is a lifelong process that helps individuals adjust better in personal, social, and professional life.

It includes:

Enhancing self-awareness
Building positive self-image
Developing communication and interpersonal skills
Controlling emotions and reactions
Cultivating a positive attitude and values

In the context of education, personality development is crucial for both teachers and students, as it influences classroom behaviour, learning style, social adjustment, and success in life.

Understanding “Strokes” in Personality Development

The concept of “strokes” comes from Transactional Analysis (TA), a theory of personality developed by Eric Berne.

A stroke is a unit of recognition or attention that one person gives to another. Strokes can be verbal (words) or non-verbal (gestures, smiles, touch), and they play a significant role in shaping an individual’s self-image and behaviour.

There are two main types of strokes:

✅ Positive Strokes:

These are encouraging, affectionate, and accepting forms of attention.
They boost self-confidence, emotional security, and motivation.

Examples of Positive Strokes:

Saying “Well done” or “I’m proud of you”
Smiling and showing interest
Offering hugs, appreciation, or rewards
Giving constructive feedback and support

Effects of Positive Strokes:

Encourages self-belief and confidence
Develops a sense of security and belonging
Promotes mental well-being
Builds a positive personality and healthy relationships

❌ Negative Strokes:

These are disapproving or critical responses.
Though unpleasant, they can still fulfil the need for recognition.
If used wisely and sparingly, they may help individuals correct their behaviour.

Examples of Negative Strokes:

Saying “You always mess things up” or “You’re so careless”
Ignoring someone on purpose
Scolding or sarcasm
Displaying anger or disappointment

Effects of Negative Strokes:

Can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, or frustration
If constructive, they can trigger behavioural change
May create a fear of failure or judgment

Personality Development Through Positive and Negative Strokes

Both types of strokes contribute to personality development. The goal is to give more positive strokes to reinforce good behaviour and carefully use negative strokes only to correct destructive or unhelpful behaviour.

A balance of strokes is necessary. A person who receives no strokes may feel neglected, while too many negative strokes can cause emotional damage.

A teacher, parent, or mentor must know when and how to use strokes:

Use positive strokes to reinforce strengths and desired behaviour.
Use constructive criticism (mild negative stroke) to guide improvement.
Avoid humiliating or harmful strokes, especially in front of others.

Types of Individuals Who Require Positive Strokes

Shy or Introverted Individuals:
- They often avoid social interactions due to a lack of confidence.
- Need praise and encouragement to come out of their shell.
Children or Students with Learning Difficulties:
- They may feel left out or less capable.
- Positive strokes help them believe in themselves.
Low Self-Esteem Individuals:
- They constantly doubt their abilities.
- Regular appreciation and support can build their self-image.
People Recovering from Failure or Trauma:
- Emotional support through positive strokes can help heal psychological wounds.
Emotionally Sensitive Individuals:
- They may take criticism too deeply.
- Encouraging words make them feel understood and accepted.

Types of Individuals Who Require Negative Strokes (Used Carefully)

Overconfident or Arrogant Individuals:
- They may ignore others' viewpoints or become aggressive.
- Constructive negative strokes bring them back to reality.
Undisciplined Students:
- Those who break rules or distract others in class.
- Require firm but respectful criticism to improve behaviour.
Repeated Offenders or Bullies:
- Must be made aware that their actions have consequences.
- Controlled negative feedback can bring behavioural correction.
Emotionally Manipulative People:
- May use emotions for selfish purposes.
- Negative strokes help them understand ethical boundaries.
Overdependent Individuals:
- Rely too much on others for approval or help.
- Mild criticism can promote self-reliance.

Guidelines for Teachers When Using Strokes:

Do’s (Positive Strokes)	Don’ts (Harmful Use of Negative Strokes)
Appreciate sincerely	Avoid public humiliation
Praise effort, not just result	Don’t compare students negatively
Use body language positively	Avoid sarcasm or insults
Be consistent in feedback	Don’t ignore student achievements
Give constructive criticism	Avoid shouting or threatening

3) Emotions

Introduction

Emotions are complex psychological states that involve three distinct components: a subjective experience, a physiological response, and a behavioural or expressive response. They play a central role in human behaviour, decision-making, relationships, learning, and personal well-being.

Emotions are not just feelings – they are messages from our inner self, helping us understand how we relate to the world and what we value. Whether we are aware of them or not, emotions guide our thoughts, behaviours, actions, and interactions with others.

🌈 Types of Emotions

Emotions can be broadly categorised into positive, negative, and neutral emotions. Additionally, some psychologists also classify emotions as basic (primary) or complex (secondary).

A) Basic (Primary) Emotions:

These are universal emotions experienced by all humans, often seen in infants and present across cultures.

Emotion	Description
Happiness	Feeling joy, pleasure, and contentment
Sadness	Feeling loss, disappointment, or helplessness
Anger	Reaction to injustice, frustration, or hurt
Fear	Response to danger, threat, or uncertainty
Surprise	Reaction to unexpected events
Disgust	A sense of aversion towards something unpleasant

B) Complex (Secondary) Emotions:

These develop with maturity and are influenced by social and cultural factors.

Emotion	Description
Guilt	Feeling of remorse for wrongdoing
Shame	Feeling of humiliation or disgrace
Pride	Satisfaction in one's achievements
Jealousy	Resentment towards others’ success
Embarrassment	Discomfort in social situations
Gratitude	Feeling thankful and appreciative
Empathy	Understanding and sharing the feelings of others

C) Positive and Negative Emotions

Positive Emotions	Negative Emotions
Joy, Gratitude, Love, Hope, Pride	Anger, Fear, Jealousy, Guilt

Note: Negative emotions are not bad – they are essential signals that guide us toward growth and self-regulation.

💪 Power of Emotions

Emotions are powerful forces that shape every aspect of our lives:

1. Influence on Decision-Making:

Emotions affect how we evaluate situations and make choices.
Example: Fear may prevent risky behaviour; confidence may encourage action.

2. Impact on Relationships:

Emotions like empathy, love, and forgiveness build strong relationships.
Negative emotions like anger and jealousy can damage them if uncontrolled.

3. Motivation and Action:

Emotions drive us toward goals (e.g., passion fuels hard work).
Fear or guilt may also push us to correct a mistake.

4. Learning and Memory:

Emotional events are remembered more vividly.
A positive learning environment enhances academic performance.

5. Physical and Mental Health:

Chronic negative emotions (e.g., stress or sadness) can harm the body.
Positive emotions promote resilience, healing, and mental stability.

🌱 Emotional Maturity and Its Stages

What is Emotional Maturity?

Emotional maturity is the ability to understand, manage, and express emotions in a healthy and balanced way. It means:

Responding, not reacting
Being aware of one’s emotions
Understanding others’ emotions
Managing anger, anxiety, or sadness effectively
Taking responsibility for one's actions

Emotionally mature people are calm, understanding, empathetic, and mentally strong.

Stages of Emotional Growth

Just as physical and cognitive abilities develop in stages, emotional growth also follows a pattern:

Stage 1: Infancy (0–2 years)

Express basic emotions like joy, anger, fear, and sadness.
No control over emotions.
Crying and smiling are primary emotional expressions.

Stage 2: Early Childhood (3–6 years)

Begin recognising their own emotions and those of others.
Strong attachment to caregivers.
Struggle with emotional control (e.g., tantrums).

Stage 3: Middle Childhood (7–11 years)

Develop greater self-awareness.
Start understanding rules, morality, and consequences.
Begin to show empathy and regulate emotions better.

Stage 4: Adolescence (12–18 years)

Emotions become more intense and confusing due to hormonal changes.
Increased desire for independence and identity formation.
Struggle with peer pressure and self-esteem.
Need guidance to develop self-control and emotional insight.

Stage 5: Early Adulthood (18–25 years)

Better control over emotions.
Develop deeper empathy, understanding, and maturity.
More responsible in relationships and decisions.

Stage 6: Adulthood (25+ years)

Emotional responses are balanced and measured.
Ability to handle criticism and stress effectively.
Greater acceptance of self and others.
Focus on meaningful relationships and social contribution.

Signs of Emotional Maturity:

Listens more, talks less.
Accepts responsibility without blaming others.
Manages conflict calmly and constructively.
Shows empathy and compassion.
Controls impulses and avoids emotional outbursts.

Role of a Teacher in Emotional Development:

Identifying students’ emotional needs.
Providing a safe and supportive environment.
Teaching emotional vocabulary and expression.
Modelling emotionally mature behaviour.
Offering guidance and mentoring.