Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) Lab at Utah State University
– Concerns and Strategies –
Emotion Regulation
Managing Emotions
Emotional Control - The ability to modulate emotional responses by bringing rational thought to bear on feelings. (The example here is Robin's anger when confronted with her own impulsive behavior in committing the family before checking out the dates: "Why are you all being so negative?")
Strategies for Managing Emotions
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Many websites have been created that are dedicated to learning self-regulation skills for managing emotions. Because this is such an intense concern with developmental and situational differences. We do have some sites that we have found to be useful to share.
Anxiety BC is a website that walks parents and students through strategies to help children and youth cope with anxiety. They use what are called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques because they have a strong research base. The components of their strategies are awareness, relaxation, realistic thinking, facing fears, and preventing relapse.
KidsHealth has webpages dedicated to Taking Charge of Anger for young children and another set of pages for teens on How Can I Deal with My Anger.
Deep breathing techniques can support managing anxiety or anger. There are many sites on the web that provide clear instruction and practice on using this technique. Some of the sites and videos invoke transcendental meditation or various religions. Research shows that deep-breathing and other relaxation strategies have a number of positive effects independent of any belief system.
The National Institutes of Health Clinical Center provides a video that can work well for older or more advanced students called TIPS Deep Breathing Exercises. Another YouTube video is provided by Anxiety Relief Practice is a little more accessible and may be used with older children or with younger children with parent support.
Regular physical exercise can support emotional regulation. Going for a run or bike ride, using exercise equipment, participating in a sport, or stretching and practicing yoga are all physical activities that can allow an opportunity to burn off stress or anger. Just playing an active game with friends can help us relieve stress.