Changing one’s thoughts from negative to positive is a process that starts with becoming aware of unhelpful thought patterns and questioning their validity. It also involves practicing mindfulness to observe thoughts without judgment.
The Changing Negative Thoughts to Positive Thoughts Worksheet instructs kids to identify and replace recurring negative thoughts by writing them down in the thought clouds.
By engaging with this worksheet, kids and teens can disrupt negative thoughts and explore various perspectives to realize that situations or events are not confined to a single viewpoint. To better spot negative thoughts, they can also use the Anxiety Tracker journal. With this tool, they can jot down times when they feel upset or worried, and then list coping skills to shift their perspective.
*This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of anxiety worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Eagleson, C., Hayes, S., Mathews, A., Perman, G., & Hirsch, C. R. (2016). The power of positive thinking: Pathological worry is reduced by thought replacement in generalized anxiety disorder. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 78, 13-18. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2015.12.017
- Larsson, A., Hooper, N., Osborne, L. A., Bennett, P., & McHugh, L. (2015). Using brief cognitive restructuring and cognitive defusion techniques to cope with negative thoughts. Behavior Modification, 40(3), 452-482. https://doi.org/10.1177/0145445515621488
