CATEGORY 1: The Basics of Emotions
What are emotions?
Feelings that give us information about our thoughts, environment, and experiences.
Why do humans have emotions?
To help us survive, connect, and understand the world around us.
True or False: Feeling emotions makes you weak.
False — feeling emotions shows awareness, not weakness.
Name one benefit of having emotions.
Helps us empathize with others.
Why can emotions sometimes be hard to handle?
They can feel too strong or confusing.
True or False: Emotions are good or bad.
False — emotions are neither good nor bad; they’re natural.
How do emotions help us communicate?
Facial expressions and tone show others how we feel.
What’s one myth people believe about emotions?
“I shouldn’t feel sad,” “Some emotions are bad,” or “Crying is weak.”
How do emotions help build relationships?
They help us connect through empathy and understanding.
What happens when we avoid emotions?
They build up or come out in unhealthy ways.
What do emotions help us do?
Communicate, survive, motivate, and understand ourselves.
How can emotions help us make decisions?
They guide us toward what feels right or warn us when something’s wrong.
What’s the truth about “bad” emotions?
There are no bad emotions — only uncomfortable ones.
How do emotions help us make decisions?
They guide us toward what we value or want to avoid.
How can emotions lead to impulsive actions?
When we act before thinking (yelling, hitting, shutting down).
Name one basic emotion.
Happy, sad, angry, scared, disgusted, or surprised.
How do emotions help keep us safe?
Fear warns us about danger; anger helps us protect ourselves.
Why might someone believe myths about emotions?
They were taught to hide emotions or feared being judged.
What positive emotions help us stay connected?
Love, joy, gratitude, pride.
What’s one example of an emotion causing conflict?
Anger during arguments or jealousy in friendships.
What does DBT teach us to do with emotions?
Notice them, name them, and respond effectively instead of reacting impulsively.
Give one way emotions motivate us to act.
Guilt makes us apologize, love helps us care for others, or pride pushes us to achieve goals.
What’s one fact you’ve learned about emotions this week?
Answers vary — e.g., “All emotions serve a purpose.”
How can emotions help us grow as people?
They teach us lessons about ourselves and what matters most.
What’s one healthy way to deal with uncomfortable emotions?
Using DBT skills like STOP, deep breathing, journaling, or talking to staff.