Catching and reframing criticism

This thought diary is designed to support young people in recognising and reframing negative self-talk.

It encourages them to document situations where they experience self-critical thoughts, and then reframe these by reflecting on how they would respond if a friend shared similar thoughts and feelings.

References and Further Reading 

  • Fennell, M. (1999). Overcoming Low Self-Esteem: A self-help guide using cognitive behavioural techniques. London: Constable & Robinson.
  • Haney, P., & Durlak, J. A. (1998). Changing self-esteem in children and adolescents: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Clinical Child Psychology, 27(4), 423–433.
  • Pepping, C. A., O’Donovan, A., & Davis, P. J. (2013). The positive effects of mindfulness on self-esteem. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 8(5), 376–386. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2013.807353.
  • Neff, K. D., & McGehee, P. (2009). Self-compassion and psychological resilience among adolescents and young adults. Self and Identity, 9(3), 225–240. https://doi.org/10.1080/15298860902979307.
  • Wakelin, K. E., Perman, G., & Simonds, L. M. (2021). Effectiveness of self-compassion-related interventions for reducing self-criticism: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.2586.
  • Bluth, K., & Eisenlohr-Moul, T. (2017). Making friends with yourself: A mixed-methods pilot study of a mindful self-compassion program for adolescents. Mindfulness, 8(6), 1601–1615. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-017-0736-y.