Breaking Down Shame in the Classroom: Arkansas A.W.A.R.E.'s Deep Dive
I just think all of these moving stories, I'm willing to bet, started with shame and ended with empathy.
Ever thought about how shame shapes our classrooms? In this eye-opening episode of Arkansas A.W.A.R.E., Dr. Betsy Kindall, Nicole Fairchild, and Dr. Stacy Moore tackle the complex issue of shame, drawing inspiration from Brene Brown's 'Atlas of the Heart'. Brene's words, 'Shame thrives on secrecy, silence, and judgment', set the stage for a candid discussion on how shame affects teacher-student relationships and classroom dynamics.
The hosts question whether students are left to manage their own shame and share stories of relationships that transformed from shame to empathy. Dr. Stacy Moore poignantly notes, 'I think a lot of us spend our whole lifetimes finding that person that says, I see you for who you are and I love you despite and with everything you bring'. This episode encourages us to be those empathetic figures in our schools and communities.
Packed with practical advice, the conversation covers strategies for fostering a positive learning environment, such as self-awareness, understanding behavior issues, and building strong teacher-student connections. Whether you're an educator, parent, or someone interested in mental health, this episode offers valuable insights into creating more empathetic and supportive relationships.