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8 weeks: Wednesdays 6PM-7PM
Ages: 13-17
6-8 Members
Purpose of the Group: When you look in the mirror what do you see? Do you immediately focus on all the things you dislike and all the things you want to change about yourself? Self-esteem and body image are influenced by many different factors and with the changes teens are experiencing, it isn’t uncommon for them to question how they view themselves. The purpose of this group is to explore and understand what self-esteem and body image is while fostering positive habits to improve an understanding of Self alongside other like-minded individuals. Throughout the 8 weeks, group members will work on rediscovering what it means to love themselves, work towards self-acceptance, and develop skills to help improve self-esteem and body image in the long term.
Group Structure: All group sessions will begin with an open discussion for group members to share thoughts, updates, progress, and/or setbacks about the previous week. Group members are encouraged to share only to the extent that they feel comfortable. Each week a new topic and discussion prompt is presented by the group facilitator, along with an activity. To end the group session members will summarize the week’s topic, discuss goals to work on before the next meeting, and are encouraged to participate in a short mindfulness exercise. Group structure is subject to change based on group members’ needs during sessions.
Schedule:
Week one: Introductions and Group Expectations
- Get to know you/Icebreaker activity
- Create group rules and expectations as a group
- Group definition of body image and self-esteem
Week Two: Understanding Self Esteem and Body Image
- Review definition of body image and self-esteem
- How do we develop our understanding of Self
- Sharing and discussion of Self Portrait activity
Week Three: Creating Positive Self Esteem and Body Image
- What does positive self-esteem and body image look like?
- What does positive self-esteem and body image feel like?
- Affirmation activity and discussion
Week Four: Empowerment and Self-Acceptance
- What to do when negative thoughts creep back in
- Positive habits for better self-esteem and body image
- The compliment activity
Week Five: Media Influence on How We View Ourselves
- How does media affect how we view ourselves?
- Tips for using social media and maintaining a positive self-image
- Social media profile activity
Week Six: Self-Esteem and Body Image When with Others
- How does your view of yourself differ when in different social situations?
- Tool development for maintaining a positive self when with others
- How people see me activity
Week Seven: Being Your Best Self
- What does being your best self look and feel like to you?
- Creating a social support system
- Why I love myself activity
Week Eight: Summary
- Letter to self activity
- Discussion of take aways and skills
- What to do if problems arise
- Feedback about the group
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