The Emotional Competence model

The Emotional Competence Model provides a framework for teaching children to cope with their own emotions and difficult life situations. The process of coping is accomplished in four steps or stages, and emotional competence is seen as the successful application of these steps in daily living. The model incorporates aspects of a “turtle technique” (Dlugokinski & Suh, 1989) with aspects of the problem-solving strategies of Myrna Shure and George Spivak (1982). It further incorporates relaxation exercises and ideas for body composure based on Arlene Koeppen’s work (1974).