introduction
“Emotions and Needs,” supports students in examining the fundamental connection between emotions and human needs, explaining that feelings often arise in response to needs being met or unmet. Students also explore how concepts like self-agency (the capacity to take action and assume responsibility for actions), self-advocacy (the ability to communicate one’s needs and speak up for oneself), and self-regulation (the ability to navigate one’s emotions, nervous system, and behaviors to promote well-being and avoid harm) are helpful tools when needs are unmet. Students identify personal needs and provide examples of how each can be met or unmet, explaining how this impacts an individual’s feelings and emotional responses.