Often, when children are labelled with a 'problem,' they are perceived as different or failing, which can create a cycle of negativity. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression, as the brain tends to hold onto these negative perceptions.

In the last 10-15 years, the field of positive psychology has emerged as a valuable counterpoint to the traditional focus on fixing mental health issues. Dr Rob Long, a Chartered Psychologist, joins us to discuss how positive psychology can offer a transformative approach to supporting children and young adults, particularly those facing social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) difficulties.

During our discussion we cover:

• The history of Positive Psychology.
• Maslow’s influence.
• Seligman's contribution: by actively promoting well-being and resilience, which he termed the "PERMA" model (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment).
• The importance of context and individual differences.
• The bidirectional relationship between well-being and mental health.

Listen to hear how positive psychology provides a valuable framework for supporting children and young adults, especially those facing SEMH challenges. By focusing on enhancing well-being, resilience, and fulfilment, rather than solely addressing problems, positive psychology can empower young people to reach their full potential.

 

About Dr Rob Long

DR Rob Long is a Chartered Psychologist who provides independent training to teachers and other professionals concerned with children and young adults. Rob's main area of interest is supporting children who face social, emotional and mental health difficulties. He is committed to developing, through training, project work and publications an understanding of these children and providing solutions and practical help to school staff and families. 

 He is a tutor on a distance learning course in Social, Emotional and Mental Health issues run by Oxford/ Brookes University and SEBDA.  He is also an active member of SEBDA. 

 

Contact Dr Long

https://x.com/@SebdaOrg

www.sebda.org

info@roblong.co.uk

 

Useful Links

Supporting Parental Well-Being

Building Wellbeing and Resilience

 

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https://educationtodayawards.co.uk/vote/

 

• B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk 
• Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast 
• Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk 
• Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe

 

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