In the movie Inside Out, we learn alongside Riley and her complex emotions – Joy, Anger, Fear, Disgust, and Sadness – as she navigates significant changes in her life. Now, with the highly anticipated release of Inside Out 2, we see even more complex emotions added into the mix – Anxiety, Ennui, Envy, and Embarrassment – as Riley becomes a teenager and navigates puberty, relationships, and passions (mainly hockey).
As we witness Riley’s internal joys and struggles in both Inside Out and Inside Out 2, it becomes evident how crucial emotional wellbeing is for everyone. At Proof Positive, we believe everyone can enhance their wellbeing and flourish with access to the right skills. What would happen if Riley – and all of us – had access to wellbeing resources during challenging times?
In our latest webinar, Proof Positive’s Chief Wellbeing Officer, Katie Curran, shared insights on the Inside Out movies and where the science and skills of happiness come into play. By digging deeper into scenes from the Inside Out movies where Riley could have benefited from these strategies, Katie empowers all of us to lead happier, more fulfilling lives by practicing practical, proven skills.
Watch the full 30-minute webinar recording here.
Here are some insights Katie shared:
- Inside Out 2 did a wonderful job demonstrating the complexity of emotions, thoughts, and beliefs and the understanding that all emotions have a purpose. The relationships between the characters also convey the critical nature of relationships and the need for balance.
- The science of positive emotions and evidence-based skills (such as Jolts of Joy and Positivity Portfolios) can help kids develop a more balanced emotional command center in their brains.
- Proactive skills could have helped Riley manage intense emotions like anxiety – including tapping into her strengths, practicing gratitude, and deliberate breathing.
- Tips and tricks on how to seamlessly fit the skills of happiness into the school day.
In addition to Katie’s insights and expertise, Greater Good Science Center recently dove into the Science Behind Inside Out 2 in a conversation with Dacher Keltner, Ph.D., Lisa Damour, Ph.D., who both served as scientific consultants on the film, and Maurissa Horwitz, the lead editor of the film. This is another great resource for learning about the science of emotions!
From developing resilience to managing emotions, the science and skills of happiness give the autism community the tools to navigate life’s ups and downs and ensure wellbeing wins for all.
