Want to feel less stressed? Use the power of attention to create choice and change! Human beings are wired to scan for what is missing or what is wrong. A feature of the brain intended to keep us safe. It’s called the “negativity bias,” but according to Dr. Rick Hanson this means that many adults are prone to having “velcro for the bad, teflon for the good.”
The impact on children and adults
The result in classrooms? Teachers may comment upon/react to children’s challenging behavior far more often than their positive behavior. Many times they miss the positive behavior all together. Adults are scanning for what is wrong to manage the classroom, but might miss opportunities to develop the childm . For teachers, it’s imperative to take in and notice both the negative/dangerous AND the positive/beneficial for their mental health and well-being!
Learning to balance the power of attention
In this training series, Laura helps participants understand the negativity bias, how it may impact their observation skills, and ways to harness the power of attention so children and adults alike feel safe, satisfied, and connected. Less stressed. Less challenging behavior in children.
Want to learn more about the negativity bias?
In her two articles below, Laura offers practices to balance the negativity bias. By using your mind to change your brain, you can alleviate teacher stress and promote healthy development in children.