Beyond Joy and Sadness: How to Teach Children to Understand and Nurture Their Emotions, Online or Offline

The upcoming movie Inside Out 2 will introduce four new emotions that are expected to resonate with viewers. One of these emotions is ennui, a type of boredom typically seen in pre-teen or teen years. Dr. Kyle Boerke, a child psychologist with OSF HealthCare, emphasizes the importance of understanding and naming emotions from a young age. The first Inside Out movie did an excellent job in this regard.

According to Dr. Boerke, parents can use the Inside Out movies as a valuable teaching tool for their children. It is crucial for kids to know that there are no “bad” emotions, only inappropriate ways of expressing them. A significant percentage of children aged 8-17 use social media platforms for various purposes, as reported by the U.S. Surgeon General.

However, it is vital to recognize that the images portrayed on social media platforms may not always accurately represent reality. When users compare themselves to the influencers they follow on social media, it leads to a phenomenon known as “upward social comparison.” This comparison can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression as individuals may be comparing their worst days to someone else’s best (or artificial) days enhanced through filters and editing.

Research has shown a direct link between increased time spent on social media and higher levels of anxiety and depression. To combat these negative effects, Dr. Boerke recommends limiting exposure to social media and avoiding interactions with people who engage in negativity or body shaming.

By taking these steps, individuals can protect their mental well-being and focus on cultivating positive self-perception.

In conclusion, Inside Out 2 will introduce four new emotions that are expected to resonate with viewers, including ennui. Understanding and naming emotions from a young age is crucial for children’s development. Parents can use the Inside Out movies as a valuable teaching tool for their children while being mindful of the potential negative effects of social media usage. By limiting exposure to social media and avoiding interactions with negativity or body shaming, individuals can protect their mental well-being and focus on cultivating positive self-perception.