Spirit of Belonging

Abraham Maslow's theory of human needs postulates that a sense of belonging must be attained before self-esteem and self-actualization can be realized. As a student is drawn into the circle in the Spirit of Belonging, a relationship is established which is based upon mutual trust and respect. This provides the motivation to live with "a minimum of friction and maximum of goodwill" (Bendtro et al, 1990). The ultimate test of this kinship is behaviour. You really belong when you act like you belong!

Spirit of Belonging	Distorted Spirit of Belonging	Broken Spirit of Belonging
Attached	Gang Loyalty	Unattached
Loving	Craves Affection	Guarded
Friendly	Craves Acceptance	Rejected
Intimate	Promiscuous	Lonely
Gregarious	Cult Vulnerable	Isolated
Trusting	Overly Dependent	Distrustful

Mending a Broken Spirit

• Create a cohesive classroom environment where each student can feel like an important member.
• Give positive encouragement.
• Recognize individuality and creative talents.
• Make sure teacher expectations are very clear so students understand classroom expectations and task assignments.
• Be specific when reinforcing a student's positive behaviour.
• With discipline and behaviour, focus on the deed and not the doer.