Get weekly notifications for new group therapy session times.
Are you interested in joining an online group therapy session? Subscribe and receive weekly updates for new group therapy session times at Grouport.
.png)
Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
Learn more
Childhood is a time of exploration and growth, marked by key developmental stages that help shape a person’s future behavior and emotional well-being. One of these pivotal stages occurs between the ages of 3 and 6 years old and is outlined in Erik Erikson’s psychosocial theory of development. This stage is known as Initiative vs. Guilt, and it plays a crucial role in the development of a child’s sense of purpose, confidence, and moral understanding.
Initiative vs. Guilt is the third stage of Erikson’s eight stages of psychosocial development. During this period, children begin to assert themselves more, taking initiative in their activities and interacting more confidently with their environment. This stage, typically occurring during the preschool years, is marked by a child's desire to take on new challenges, explore their surroundings, and engage in activities independently.
At the same time, children are also becoming aware of the consequences of their actions. They start to develop a sense of right and wrong, and their growing awareness can lead to feelings of guilt when they believe they’ve done something wrong, especially if their actions are met with disapproval from adults or caregivers. The balance between initiative and guilt is delicate, and how it’s handled during this stage can have a lasting impact on a child’s emotional health.
Initiative refers to a child’s ability to make decisions, take on challenges, and approach tasks with enthusiasm. At this stage, children are naturally curious and eager to try new things. They may initiate play with others, ask questions, or engage in problem-solving activities. For example, a child might decide to build a structure with blocks, even if they’re unsure of the outcome, or they might create a new game to play with their friends. These actions help them develop a sense of agency and self-confidence, as they learn that they can influence their environment and make things happen.
When children are encouraged to take initiative, they develop a sense of self-esteem. Positive reinforcement, such as praise for trying new things or achieving goals, helps to foster this feeling. Caregivers and teachers play a vital role in supporting children as they take on these challenges. It’s important that they provide a safe environment where kids can explore, make mistakes, and experience success without fear of punishment or harsh criticism.
While initiative is essential for growth, guilt also plays a key role in this stage. As children begin to recognize the impact of their actions on others, they may start to feel guilty when they think they’ve done something wrong or hurt someone. For instance, a child might feel guilty for interrupting someone or not sharing a toy, especially if the adult or caregiver expresses disapproval.
This feeling of guilt is natural and part of the process of developing moral reasoning. However, it’s important that guilt is managed in a healthy way. If children are constantly made to feel guilty for their actions, they may develop feelings of shame or inadequacy. Overly punitive reactions can cause them to suppress their natural curiosity and enthusiasm, stifling their initiative. On the other hand, if children receive understanding guidance and constructive feedback, they learn to differentiate between acceptable and unacceptable behavior without feeling overwhelmed by guilt.
For healthy emotional and social development, it’s essential that children find a balance between initiative and guilt. When they are allowed to take initiative in their activities and make decisions, they build self-confidence and develop important life skills. However, when they are made to feel guilty for their actions, especially without understanding the context or learning from mistakes, it can lead to a fear of failure or a reluctance to try new things in the future.
Adults play a critical role in this balance. By providing a nurturing and supportive environment, they can help children navigate the complexities of this stage. Positive reinforcement, clear guidance, and appropriate consequences can help children build a strong sense of self, understand the impact of their actions, and grow into empathetic and confident individuals.
The initiative vs. guilt stage is a critical time for emotional and psychological growth. Children who are encouraged to take initiative and explore their world with confidence are more likely to develop a strong sense of self-worth. However, it’s equally important to help them understand the consequences of their actions and learn to manage guilt in a constructive way. By supporting children through this stage with patience and understanding, we can help them develop the emotional resilience and confidence they need to face life’s challenges with courage and compassion.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, intensive outpatient program, teen therapy, and a DBT-Self Guided Program. All our sessions are therapist-led, held virtually, and meet over video chat at the same time each week. All our sessions are therapist-led and are held virtually and meet over video chat at the same time each week. For group therapy, we have groups on many topics including Dialectical Behavior Therapy "DBT", Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Anger Management, OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Narcissistic Abuse, Self-Compassion, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Substance Abuse, Supporting A Loved one with BPD, among others. Each group is led by a licensed therapist that typically has over a decade of experience treating a wide range of specialties, and the group meets at the same time each week for an hour with the same members and therapist.
As reported by our members, 70% experienced significant progress within 8 weeks, including reduced anxiety & depression symptoms.
Our care coordinators can help assist you to craft the perfect treatment plan for you that's tailored to your needs. We provide speedy matches to quality care, and also provide the flexibility to switch your therapist or group at anytime ensuring that you're always meeting with the right therapist fit at a time that's convenient for your schedule. Whatever type of therapy you’re seeking, Grouport offers a range of options to suit your schedule and preferences. Explore our programs to find the support you need. If you need help finding the right type of therapy, schedule a free call with a care coordinator here.
We offer online group therapy, & each group has a personalized program of guidance, support, skills, and advice developed by our therapists.
Space is limited, so reserve your seat today.
