Emotional Intelligence

Change rarely happens all at once. Whether a young person is learning to manage emotions, build healthier relationships, or make different choices, growth is a process. The Stages of Change Model (or Transtheoretical Model) reminds us that lasting change develops over time and that every stage deserves patience, support, and understanding. 

One Circle Foundation’s community partner, Oliver Spring (he/him), is a Prevention Specialist with the Delaware County Prevention Education Program (PEP) at Child and Family Focus, Inc. (CFF). Growing up in Delaware County, PA, Oliver is passionate about giving back to his community by educating youth and families about substance use prevention. 

Adolescence is one of the most formative stages of life. It’s a time when identity, independence, and self-worth begin to take shape. During the early stages of adolescence (11-12), youth enter a stage of relational impasse or “crisis of connection” where they have to decide whether to be their authentic selves or forgo who they are in order to “fit in.” Amid the emotional highs and lows of this time, one factor stands out as a protective shield against many of life’s challenges: self-esteem.