Acknowledging emotional maturity

Emotional maturity helps an individual know how to manage emotions in difficult situations.
Emotional maturity helps an individual know how to manage emotions in difficult situations.

As you’re waiting for your young scholars to finish up school and return home for the summer, remember to pay attention to the growth in their lives – specifically in regard to emotional maturity.

You may be asking yourself, “What is emotional maturity?” This refers to an individual’s ability to manage their emotions in the various situations which they face in life. Put another way, they can respond in a healthy way when confronted with tough situations in their journey.

As a parent, you should watch for the following signs of emotional maturity in your student:

  • Taking personal responsibility.
  • Effectively managing their emotions.
  • Showing empathy.
  • Not being afraid to be vulnerable.
  • Displaying healthy boundaries.

If you feel that they are lacking in the area of emotional maturity, you can help them further develop these skills by:
  • Encouraging them to be mindful of how they are feeling.
  • Helping them let go of shaming themselves.
  • Encouraging them to admit their mistakes and to try and find ways of rectifying the situation.
  • Modeling emotional maturity in your own life.

As always, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available to help your student overcome barriers as they go about their journey. Appointments are available via Zoom or in-person by calling (402) 472-7450.

More details at: http://caps.unl.edu