Emotion Regulation Skills - Video 10 - Flashcard Set
What is opposite action?
Opposite action is a skill to use when you want to change an emotion that you’re having. It involves doing the opposite of your action urge.
When is opposite action especially useful?
Opposite action is especially useful when acting on your emotion would do you little good or even cause you harm.
What is an example of a situation where opposite action can be useful?
If you have a fear of public speaking and it’s getting in the way of asking questions and participating in groups.
What is the first step in practicing opposite action?
The first step in practicing opposite action is to identify the emotion you want to change.
Why might you need to tune into your body when identifying the emotion you want to change?
You might need to tune into your body when identifying the emotion you want to change to determine what exactly it is you’re feeling.
What is an example of an action urge for fear?
An action urge for fear is to run away.
What is an example of an action urge for anger?
An action urge for anger is to attack.
What is an example of an opposite action for shame?
An opposite action for shame might be to stop hiding and tell someone who supports you about what you’re feeling shameful.
What is an example of an opposite action for sadness?
An opposite action for sadness might be to get active and engage in activities you like.
Why is it important to do the opposite action all the way?
It’s important to do the opposite action all the way with your facial expressions, posture, thoughts, and how you say things to fully change the emotion.
What should you do if opposite action feels difficult to do?
If opposite action feels difficult to do, take it step by step and repeat until your emotion changes.
How long might it take to notice a change in your emotion when practicing opposite action?
It may take some time, but you should repeat opposite action over and over again until you notice that the intensity of the emotion has decreased or the emotion has changed altogether.
