Teaching Self-Compassion to Teens

Grounded in the developmental realities of adolescence, this book provides an innovative framework for teaching self-compassion to teens and young adults in clinical, educational, and community settings. Lorraine Hobbs and Niina Tamura adapt evidence-based principles from the Mindful Self-Compassion program for adults, offering guided practices, creative exercises, and practical teaching strategies. Rich case examples, sample dialogues, and scripts help facilitators lead effective groups that address common teen concerns such as self-criticism, self-esteem, social comparison, and managing strong emotions. The book also includes guidance on cultivating a personal practice, engaging parents, and creating a trauma-sensitive learning environment.

Key Features:

• Adapts the adult Mindful Self-Compassion program for adolescents and young adults.
• Provides structured exercises, case examples, sample scripts, and guided practices for group facilitation.
• Addresses teen-specific challenges including self-criticism, self-esteem, social comparison, and emotional regulation.
• Offers strategies for working with parents and fostering a personal self-compassion practice.
• Includes trauma-sensitive teaching guidance and tips for creating a safe, supportive learning environment.