Emotions
Name two emotions from the movies
Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, Disgust, Anxiety, Envy, Ennui (boredom), Embarrassment
Who is Riley?
The main character whose emotions guide her thoughts, memories, and behavior
What big change starts Riley’s emotional struggle?
Moving to a new city, losing familiar supports, adjusting to change
Name one healthy way Riley copes
Talking to parents, crying, reconnecting with others, accepting feelings
What problem do the emotions face?
Loss of control, imbalance, lack of communication
Which emotion tries to protect Riley the most? How?
Fear and Anxiety—by anticipating danger, preventing mistakes, and trying to keep Riley safe (even if it goes too far)
What role does Sadness play in Inside Out?
Helps Riley process loss, connect with others, and receive support
What happens when emotions take over completely?
Impulsive behavior, shutdown, conflict, emotional overload
What happens when Riley avoids feelings?
Emotions intensify; behaviors become impulsive or disconnected
What happens when plans fail?
Stress increases—but flexibility helps adapt
Why isn’t Joy the only important emotion?
All emotions have a purpose; Sadness helps with connection, Anger signals injustice, Anxiety prepares for challenges
How does Anxiety act differently than Fear?
Fear reacts to immediate danger; Anxiety plans ahead and worries about future outcomes
Why do things get worse when emotions are ignored?
Feelings build up, explode later, or show up in unhealthy behaviors
How do the movies show calming down?
Pausing, slowing reactions, emotional cooperation, support from others
How does flexibility help Riley?
Allows adjustment, emotional growth, and healthier responses
How do emotions work better when they cooperate?
Balance leads to healthier choices, better understanding, and emotional regulation
Which character causes problems but means well?
Anxiety (or Joy)—they want to help but over-control situations
How do mistakes help Riley grow?
She learns about herself, emotions, and how to cope better next time
What could Riley do differently when overwhelmed?
Use coping skills, ask for help, take breaks, name feelings
How do emotions learn from mistakes?
Through reflection, teamwork, and trying new strategies
Which emotion do you relate to most right now, and why?
Any emotion is valid; insight into why matters more than which emotion
If one emotion ran your brain today, who would it be?
Any emotion with a thoughtful explanation shows self-awareness
What moment shows emotional growth the most?
Riley expressing feelings honestly; emotions working together again
Create a coping plan Riley or a teen could use
1️⃣ Notice emotion
2️⃣ Pause and breathe
3️⃣ Ask for help or use a coping skill
What lesson can help someone on the unit this week?
Emotions aren’t bad; asking for help and flexibility matter