Thinking Errors
This thinking error happens when someone downplays their achievements or positive qualities, saying things like, “It was no big deal” after accomplishing something difficult.
What is Minimizing?
This level is often described as feeling calm, safe, and ready to learn or work.
What is 1?
This part of the Circle of Control includes your choices, actions, and attitude.
What is things you can control?
Taking slow, deep breaths to help calm your body and mind is an example of this coping strategy.
What is deep breathing?
This reflection skill involves thinking about what went well after completing a task or activity.
What is identifying successes?
This thinking error involves predicting disaster before it happens, such as thinking, “If I fail this test, my whole future is ruined.”
What is Assuming the Worst?
A student is yelling, arguing, and unable to focus on directions. They need support to regain control. This level is most likely which number on the scale?
What is 4?
Whether it rains on the day of your picnic falls into this part of the Circle of Control.
What is something you cannot control?
When emotions are building, this coping strategy involves stepping away from the situation briefly to regain control.
What is taking a break?
After an argument, a student thinks about how their words affected the other person. This is an example of reflecting on what?
What is the impact of their actions?
This thinking error occurs when a person refuses to take responsibility and instead says things like, “It's all their fault that I got in trouble.”
What is Blaming Others?
Someone is irritated by a situation but remains in control and can continue working without needing help. This level is most likely which number?
What is 2?
A student chooses to study for a test instead of playing video games. This is an example of controlling what?
What are your actions/choices?
Instead of thinking, "I can't do this," a person tells themselves, "I can try my best." This coping strategy is called what?
What is positive self-talk?
This type of reflection asks, "What would I do differently next time?"
What is learning from mistakes?
This thinking error makes risky or harmful behaviors seem exciting, admirable, or worth copying, despite negative consequences.
What is Glorifying?
At this level, a person may notice early warning signs such as a faster heartbeat, racing thoughts, or difficulty concentrating, but can still use coping skills effectively.
What is 3?
A friend is upset and decides not to talk to you. While you can choose how to respond, this part of the situation is outside your control.
What is another person's feelings or behavior?
This coping strategy helps a person focus on what is happening right now by paying attention to their thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment.
What is mindfulness?
A person reviews a difficult situation, identifies their emotions, and considers what triggered them. This reflection skill is called what?
What is self-awareness?
This thinking error causes someone to view situations only from their own perspective, believing that their needs, feelings, or opinions are the most important.
What is Self-Centered Thinking?
This is the lowest number on the 5-Point Scale where a person should start thinking about using coping strategies before emotions become harder to manage.
What is 3?
Focusing too much on things outside your Circle of Control can often lead to this feeling because you are spending energy on things you cannot change.
What is frustration, stress, or anxiety?
This coping strategy involves identifying a problem, brainstorming possible solutions, considering consequences, and choosing the best option.
What is problem-solving?
Effective reflection includes honestly examining both strengths and areas for improvement in order to achieve this long-term goal.
What is personal growth (or self-improvement)?