Scientific Background of FeelWise: A Cross-Disciplinary Approach to Emotional Intelligence

Introduction

FeelWise is a transformative emotional intelligence (EI) system that integrates user experience (UX) design, organizational psychology, positive psychology, and human-centered design to foster emotional awareness, resilience, and thriving. Founded by Tina Schweiger, a Harvard-trained organizational psychologist with a certification in Human-Centered Design from the Luma Institute, FeelWise addresses barriers in traditional EI models, such as restricted access, oversimplified frameworks, and lack of inclusive tools. The FEEL Framework (Find Your Emotions, Embrace Mindfulness, Evolve Through Resilience, Love and Connect) guides users through a progressive journey, supported by a vibrant, trauma-informed, and neurodiverse-friendly product suite. This webpage outlines FeelWise’s scientific foundations, therapeutic applications, and practical impact, grounded in academic research, for educators, therapists, learning and development (L&D) professionals, and healthcare providers.

FEEL Framework Description

Overview

The FEEL Framework, created by FeelWise founder Christina Schweiger, is a transformative, science-informed approach to building emotional intelligence, empowering individuals and communities to navigate emotions with clarity, resilience, and connection. FEEL stands for Find, Embrace, Evolve, Love, guiding users to identify emotions as intuitive signals using visual “Feelie” faces (FeelWise’s emoji-style emotion characters), integrate them through accessible mindfulness, transform challenges into growth through practice, and foster connections via storytelling. Inspired by Christina’s journey through life-altering surgeries, her family’s resilience during her husband’s cancer battles, and her design expertise in organizing emotions like colors, FEEL underpins FeelWise’s tools—156 emotion cards, mindfulness decks, and the Super EQ Kit. Improving emotional intelligence with FEEL is much like practicing a sport, music, or craft: the more you practice, the more muscle memory you develop, enabling you to call upon these skills in the moment when needed—that’s what brings true emotional resilience. Christina’s own published research (Schweiger et al., 2023, Computers in Human Behavior, DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2023.107914) demonstrates that emojis, like Feelie faces, are a valid predictor of in-the-moment mood, validating their role in this framework. Designed as a visual, limbic-driven, iterative system for all ages and settings (schools, workplaces, therapy), FEEL aims to heal emotional suffering and build a compassionate world.

Find Your Emotions

Concept

Find invites users to identify and name emotions intuitively, treating them as temporary signals rather than identities. Drawing from design principles, emotions—challenging (e.g., fear, sadness) or pleasant (e.g., joy, interest)—are organized like a color system, with FeelWise’s 156 emotion cards in 12 families. Each card features a unique, dialogue-free “Feelie” face—emoji-style characters that resonate with the limbic brain (feeling brain) rather than the prefrontal cortex (thinking brain). Inspired by Christina’s design expertise, this visual system, like a color palette, helps users recognize emotions by seeing a Feelie’s expressive face, then reading its name, definition, and prompts to “back into” naming the emotion. This approach, sparking feedback like “I never knew I had so many emotions,” taps into the limbic brain for visceral recognition, making emotional literacy accessible and intuitive for all.

Summary of Scientific Literature

Naming emotions reduces emotional reactivity, and recognizing emotions via facial expressions engages the limbic brain. A 2020 Journal of Applied Psychology study (DOI: 10.1037/apl0000487) found that labeling emotions decreases amygdala activation, enhancing regulation and decision-making. A 2007 Psychological Science study by Lieberman et al. (DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9280.2007.01861.x) showed that verbalizing emotions engages the prefrontal cortex, reducing distress. A 2014 Frontiers in Psychology study (DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00692) found that emotional faces activate the amygdala, enabling intuitive recognition before prefrontal processing. A 2003 Nature Reviews Neuroscience study by Adolphs (DOI: 10.1038/nrn1052) showed facial expressions trigger limbic responses, facilitating emotional resonance. A 2017 Emotion study (DOI: 10.1037/emo0000254) found visual cues enhance emotional granularity, supporting user reports of discovering nuanced emotions. A 2019 Journal of Neuroscience study (DOI: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1676-18.2019) confirmed limbic activation precedes prefrontal engagement for visual emotional stimuli.

Use Case

A teenager facing exam stress selects the “Anxiety” Feelie from the emotion card deck, drawn to its tense expression. Recognizing the emotion visually calms their overwhelm, enabling a discussion with their counselor about coping strategies, enhancing emotional clarity.

Embrace Mindfulness

Concept

Embrace involves integrating emotions through mindfulness, processing them for well-being. FeelWise offers 48 mindfulness techniques, with four curated for each of the 12 emotion categories, allowing users to practice techniques relevant to their emotional state. These micro-practices blend traditional methods (e.g., breathwork) with innovative approaches from design thinking and executive coaching (e.g., creative visualization), curated from Christina’s creative background. Designed to be simple and accessible, these practices engage the limbic brain, making mindfulness a daily, transformative tool for anyone, regardless of access to coaching or therapy.

Summary of Scientific Literature

Mindfulness enhances emotional integration. A 2019 Frontiers in Psychology study (DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01566) found mindfulness increases prefrontal cortex activity, improving emotional processing. A 2015 Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews meta-analysis (DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.11.013) showed mindfulness reduces cortisol and boosts resilience. A 2018 Creativity Research Journal study (DOI: 10.1080/10400419.2018.1411573) highlights that creative practices, like visualization, enhance emotional regulation by engaging limbic and prefrontal regions, supporting the blend of traditional and innovative techniques.

Use Case

A manager notices their rage meter rise during a team conflict. Instead of blowing up as they would have previously done, they remember they can step away from the situation. They leave and practice a Calming technique (2-minute progressive muscle relaxation of shoulders, neck, and jaw), then think about the person who offended them and make an intention to let the anger go with a Forgiveness Meditation (3-minute guided release of resentment), even if it doesn’t happen right away. Finally, they change their focus to a moment from earlier in the day when they were recognized for good work using a Gratitude Habit (1-minute listing three positive things). This allows the manager to regulate their anger, improve interactions with their team, and reduce their own stress, with the most effective techniques becoming ingrained through practice, much like building muscle memory in a sport.

Evolve Through Resilience

Concept

Evolve transforms emotions into growth by offering a deliberate choice in how to experience life, moving beyond practice into a reframed lens. We all face challenging emotions—anger, fear, apathy, sadness, disgust, contempt—yet have the opportunity to choose a complementary mindset to get “unstuck.” Resilience mindsets like gratitude, optimism, hope, self-compassion, curiosity, and acceptance provide alternative frames; for instance, choosing curiosity over disgust or embarrassment, though difficult, reveals insights behind these states, building resilience. This intentional selection, inspired by Christina’s design lens, empowers users to shift their perspective, even when hard—e.g., finding curiosity in disgust—unlocking deeper understanding and emotional agility.

Summary of Scientific Literature

The concept of choosing resilience mindsets to reframe challenging emotions is supported by research on cognitive reappraisal and emotional flexibility. A 2018 Emotion Review meta-analysis (DOI: 10.1177/1754073918776964) by Gross highlights that reappraising negative emotions reduces stress and builds resilience. A 2020 Frontiers in Psychology study (DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01502) demonstrates that intentional mindset shifts enhance emotional regulation over time, while a 2016 Journal of Personality study (DOI: 10.1111/jopy.12233) shows deliberate reframing fosters psychological flexibility, supporting the idea of getting “unstuck” through choice.

Use Case

A teenager feels embarrassed after a friend unintentionally mocks them in front of their peer group. They locate the “Embarrassed” Feelie from the emotion card deck and step outside for a walk to clear their mind. As their initial discomfort subsides, they reflect on the situation, imagining themselves in their friend’s shoes, which helps them realize the friend was unaware of the embarrassment caused. Choosing curiosity as a mindset, they return to their peers and inquire about what transpired in their absence, fostering a deeper understanding and strengthening their social bonds.

Love and Connect

Concept

Love builds multidimensional connections through storytelling and shared emotional literacy, spreading contagious mindsets tied to positive emotions. FeelWise’s emotion cards enable groups to share emotions via expressive Feelie faces, fostering empathy. Mindfulness techniques like mindful listening and discovering core values enhance engagement with others, while growth mindsets—empathy, compassion, openness, trust, kindness, self-acceptance—expand positivity, deepening love and connections. Inspired by Christina’s design-driven approach, this step uses playful, visual tools to engage the limbic brain, encouraging presence and optimism to uplift communities, like a color palette sparking connection.

Summary of Scientific Literature

The use of positive mindsets to deepen connections is backed by studies on prosocial behavior and emotional synchrony. A 2019 Journal of Social Psychology review (DOI: 10.1080/00224545.2019.1570903) found that positive emotions like compassion enhance interpersonal bonding. A 2017 Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience study (DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsw136) indicates that shared positive mindsets increase neural synchrony, strengthening relationships, while a 2021 Emotion study (DOI: 10.1037/emo0000974) supports that mindfulness techniques like listening amplify connection, aligning with expanding positivity.

Use Case

Alex triumphs in a chess competition, his heart brimming with excitement and energy from the victory. He selects the “Energy” Feelie from the emotion card deck, turning it over to read “move yourself,” which inspires him to perform a joyful dance in celebration. Recognizing kindness as a mindset to share his elation, he later encounters his partner struggling with work stress. Setting aside his own tasks, he listens attentively as she vents about her day, offering a warm hug and fetching her a cookie. This act of kindness not only lifts her spirits but also deepens their bond, fostering a stronger, more supportive relationship.

Integration with FeelWise Tools

The FEEL Framework powers FeelWise’s ecosystem:

  • Emotion Cards: Enable Find with visual Feelie faces for emotion identification.

  • Mindfulness Cards: Support Embrace with accessible practices.

  • Super EQ Kit: Drives Evolve through wheels and journals.
    The forthcoming FeelWise app enhances FEEL with digital Feelie selection, mindfulness prompts, and community features, making it scalable and iterative.

Reference: Resilience and Growth Mindset Pairings

  • Resilience Mindsets (for Challenging Emotions):

    • Anger / Gratitude

    • Fear / Optimism

    • Apathy / Hope

    • Sadness / Self-Compassion

    • Disgust / Curiosity

    • Contempt / Acceptance

  • Growth Mindsets (for Positive Emotions):

    • Interest / Empathy

    • Humor / Compassion

    • Love / Trust

    • Energy / Kindness

    • Pride / Self-Acceptance

  • Additional Literature References:

    • Gratitude: 2021 Journal of Happiness Studies (DOI: 10.1007/s10902-020-00328-9) – Explores how gratitude interventions enhance subjective well-being, finding that regular gratitude journaling significantly increases positive affect and life satisfaction over time.

    • Optimism: 2019 Psychological Bulletin (DOI: 10.1037/bul0000193) – A meta-analysis reveals that optimism is associated with better physical health outcomes, including lower rates of cardiovascular disease and longer lifespan, mediated by adaptive coping strategies.

    • Hope: 2018 Journal of Positive Psychology (DOI: 10.1080/17439760.2017.1365163) – This research demonstrates that hope, measured through goal-directed thinking, predicts academic success and psychological resilience, particularly in stressful contexts.

    • Self-Compassion: 2020 Mindfulness (DOI: 10.1007/s12671-019-01266-5) – The study finds that self-compassion training reduces stress and anxiety, improving mental health by fostering a non-judgmental attitude toward personal shortcomings.

    • Curiosity: 2017 Personality and Individual Differences (DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2016.10.027) – This investigation links curiosity to increased learning motivation and cognitive flexibility, showing it enhances problem-solving abilities across diverse tasks.

    • Acceptance: 2019 Behavior Therapy (DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2018.07.002) – Research indicates that acceptance-based interventions, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, reduce psychological distress and improve emotional functioning in clinical populations.

    • Empathy: 2022 Emotion (DOI: 10.1037/emo0001089) – This study shows that empathy training enhances social cognition, improving perspective-taking and emotional understanding in interpersonal interactions.

    • Compassion: 2020 Journal of Compassionate Health Care (DOI: 10.1186/s40639-020-00084-2) – The research highlights that compassion-focused interventions in healthcare settings increase patient satisfaction and provider well-being, fostering a culture of care.

    • Trust: 2018 Frontiers in Psychology (DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01473) – This study finds that trust in collaborative environments boosts team performance and individual satisfaction, mediated by perceived reliability among members.

    • Kindness: 2021 Journal of Positive Psychology (DOI: 10.1080/17439760.2020.1859835) – The investigation reveals that performing acts of kindness enhances personal happiness and strengthens social bonds, with effects persisting over weeks.

    • Self-Acceptance: 2019 Journal of Counseling Psychology (DOI: 10.1037/cou0000356) – This study demonstrates that self-acceptance interventions improve mental health outcomes, reducing depression and enhancing self-esteem in diverse populations.

More about the science behind specific aspects of FeelWise

FeelWise is grounded in peer-reviewed research, notably Kaye et al. (2023), validating emojis as mood assessment tools aligned with the Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS) (Watson et al., 1988). The FEEL Framework integrates psychology, neuroscience, and mindfulness research. Below, 15 themes are mapped to FeelWise features, with benefits and academic research.

1. Emotional Identification and Labeling

Feature: 156 Emotions Deck, with 12 families, supports “Find Your Emotions” via the Emotions Only Deck
Benefit: Enhances self-awareness and reduces conflict by providing precise emotional vocabulary.
Research: Lieberman et al. (2007) found that labeling emotions reduces amygdala activity. Kaye et al. (2023) validated emojis for nuanced identification. Schweiger (2020, unpublished) linked blend awareness to optimism (r=0.31), (Lieberman et al., 2007; Kaye et al., 2023; Schweiger, 2020).

2. Visual and Expressive Tools (Including Emojis)

Feature: Emojis in Feelalytics, The FeelWise App (forthcoming), and FeelWise tools support intuitive expression
Benefit: Increases accessibility for neurodiverse and non-verbal users, enhancing engagement.
Research: Kaye et al. (2023) confirmed emojis’ alignment with PANAS, leveraging facial recognition. Research on neurodiverse design emphasizes visual cues (Kaye et al., 2023; [Web:1]).

3. Mindfulness Practices

Feature: 48 Mindfulness Cards, integrated into the Emotions + Mindfulness Deck, offer techniques for “Embrace Mindfulness”
Benefit: Promotes emotional regulation and stress reduction, grounding users during challenges.
Research: Zeidan et al. (2010) demonstrated mindfulness reduces stress. Hayes et al. (2007) supported acceptance-based regulation. Nezu (1987) highlighted emotion-focused strategies (Zeidan et al., 2010; Hayes & Plumb, 2007; Nezu, 1987).

4. Mindset Shifts (Resilience and Thriving)

Feature: FEEL Framework pairs emotions with resilience (e.g., fear → optimism) and thriving mindsets (e.g., joy → trust) via the Super EQ Kit
Benefit: Transforms adversity into growth and amplifies positivity, fostering flourishing.
Research: Fredrickson (2001) showed positive emotions broaden cognitive repertoires. Reivich and Shatté (2002) emphasized resilience mindsets. Gross and John (2003) supported cognitive reappraisal (Fredrickson, 2001; Reivich & Shatté, 2002; Gross & John, 2003).

5. Regular Practice and Habit Formation

Feature: Daily engagement via bundled kits, app, and activities like Team Learning Check-In reinforces the FEEL Framework
Benefit: Embeds emotional literacy into routines, enhancing long-term well-being.
Research: Baumeister et al. (1998) highlighted consistent practice for cognitive control. Luthans et al. (2014) linked regular EI practice to positive outcomes. Case studies show longitudinal benefits (Baumeister et al., 1998; Luthans et al., 2014; Schweiger, 2023).

6. Neurodiverse and Trauma-Informed Design

Feature: Emotion decals, visual wheels, and predictable structures in the Super EQ Kit ensure inclusivity.
Benefit: Supports diverse learners and trauma survivors, creating safe spaces for expression.
Research: Lane et al. (1990) showed trauma-informed tools bypass verbal barriers. Research on neurodiverse design highlights visual cues (Lane et al., 1990; [Web:1]).

7. Interpersonal and Community Connection

Feature: Group tools like educator kits and Feelalytics, plus activities like Client Emotion Mapping, support “Love and Connect”
Benefit: Fosters empathy and collaboration, strengthening team dynamics and community bonds.
Research: Fredrickson (2001) linked positive emotions to social bonds. Toussaint and Webb (2005) showed empathy improves relationships. Storytelling tools promote connection (Fredrickson, 2001; Toussaint & Webb, 2005).

8. Flow States and Engagement

Feature: Structured activities like Leadership Emotion Audit, inspired by ESM, engage users within the FEEL Framework
Benefit: Enhances focus and productivity, boosting engagement in professional settings.
Research: Csikszentmihalyi (1990) showed flow states improve performance. Primus and Sonnenburg (2018) linked design thinking to flow.

9. Resilience and Adversity Navigation

Feature: Super EQ Kit and 8-Step Emotional Processing Method guide users through “Evolve Through Resilience”
Benefit: Equips users to transform challenges into growth, enhancing well-being.
Research: Reivich and Shatté (2002) highlighted resilience mindsets. Dweck (2006) showed growth mindsets foster resilience. Case studies like Upbring demonstrate resilience (Reivich & Shatté, 2002; Dweck, 2006).

10. Design Thinking and Innovation

Feature: Affinity clustering in the grid-based model and human-centered design in tool development reflect design thinking
Benefit: Drives innovative EI solutions, enhancing user engagement.
Research: Primus and Sonnenburg (2018) linked design thinking to flow. Liedtka (2018) showed it creates psychological safety. Schweiger’s certification informs innovation (The Luma Institute for Human Centered Design)

11. Physical and Somatic Awareness

Feature: Trauma exercises in Mindfulness Cards identify emotions’ bodily manifestations, supporting “Embrace Mindfulness”
Benefit: Enhances emotional processing by connecting feelings to physical sensations, aiding trauma recovery.
Research: Nezu (1987) supported somatic mindfulness. Zeidan et al. (2010) showed body-based practices reduce stress (Nezu, 1987; Zeidan et al., 2010).

12. Positive Psychology and Thriving

Feature: Thriving mindsets in the FEEL Framework and group tools promote flourishing
Benefit: Amplifies positive emotions, fostering personal and community well-being.
Research: Fredrickson (2001) showed positive emotions build resources. Hazelton (2014) linked positive emotions to engagement. Case studies like Vita demonstrate thriving (Fredrickson, 2001; Hazelton, 2014).

13. Scalability and Organizational Integration

Feature: LMS-compatible tools and no-tech kits integrate into L&D, healthcare, and educational settings
Benefit: Enhances organizational adoption, aligning with hybrid learning and wellness initiatives.
Research: Harter et al. (2016) showed engagement reduces attrition. Wegge et al. (2006) linked affective events to retention. Schweiger’s scalability aligns with 2025 ATD standards (Harter et al., 2016; Wegge et al., 2006; Schweiger, 2023).

Therapeutic Applications

FeelWise’s therapeutic applications extend its scientific and theoretical foundations, aligning with evidence-based practices to support emotional well-being across clinical, educational, and workplace settings. Complementing the FEEL Framework’s focus on emotional awareness and resilience, FeelWise’s tools integrate principles from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), social-emotional learning (SEL), and narrative therapy. These approaches, embedded in FeelWise’s inclusive and adaptable design, empower therapists, educators, and healthcare providers to foster emotional literacy, resilience, and interpersonal connection. Below, seven therapeutic approaches are mapped to FeelWise features, with benefits and major academic references.

1. Emotional Awareness and Literacy

Feature: 156 Emotions Deck and emotion wheels, used in the FEEL Framework’s “Find Your Emotions,” enable precise emotion identification
Benefit: Enhances emotional literacy, reducing reactivity and supporting therapeutic self-awareness.
Research: Beck (2011) emphasized emotional identification as a core CBT technique, reducing cognitive distortions and improving self-regulation (Beck, 2011).

2. Mindfulness Practices for Emotion Regulation

Feature: 48 Mindfulness Cards, offering techniques like box breathing and gratitude exercises, support “Embrace Mindfulness”
Benefit: Reduces stress and enhances emotional regulation, fostering resilience in therapeutic contexts.
Research: Kabat-Zinn (1990) demonstrated that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) significantly reduces anxiety and emotional dysregulation, supporting FeelWise’s mindfulness approach (Kabat-Zinn, 1990).

3. Empathy and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Feature: Group tools like educator kits and activities contrasting emotions (e.g., anger ↔ kindness) in the Super EQ Kit promote “Love and Connect”
Benefit: Cultivates empathy and social skills, enhancing interpersonal relationships in SEL and group therapy.
Research: Durlak et al. (2011) found SEL programs improve social-emotional skills and relationships, aligning with FeelWise’s empathy focus (Durlak et al., 2011).

4. Non-Pathologizing Emotional Framework with Trauma-Informed Healing

Feature: FEEL Framework presents emotions as natural, transformative experiences, supported by trauma-informed tools like emotion decals and self-compassion exercises
Benefit: Normalizes emotions and fosters safe, empowering healing, reducing stigma and overwhelm.
Research: Hayes et al. (2011) showed ACT’s focus on accepting emotions without judgment promotes psychological flexibility and trauma recovery (Hayes et al., 2011).

5. Therapeutic Flexibility for All Ages

Feature: Visual, interactive tools like emotion cards and storytelling narratives adapt to children and adults, integrated across FeelWise’s product suite
Benefit: Supports diverse developmental needs, enhancing emotional well-being in families, schools, and workplaces.
Research: Semple and Lee (2011) demonstrated that mindfulness-based interventions tailored for children and adults improve emotional regulation across age groups (Semple & Lee, 2011).

6. Resilience Building through Reframing

Feature: 8-Step Emotional Processing Method and Super EQ Kit pair negative emotions with resilience mindsets (e.g., fear → optimism) for “Evolve Through Resilience”
Benefit: Promotes resilience by reframing challenges, supporting CBT-based therapeutic growth.
Research: Beck (2011) highlighted cognitive reframing in CBT as essential for building resilience and adaptive emotional responses (Beck, 2011).

7. Storytelling as a Therapeutic Tool

Feature: FeelWise’s storytelling framework, using dialogue-free narratives in group tools, encourages reflection on emotional shifts
Benefit: Facilitates emotional healing by reframing personal narratives, uncovering strengths in therapy.
Research: White and Epston (1990) showed narrative therapy helps individuals reframe stories to promote healing and growth (White & Epston, 1990).

Additional References

  • Baumeister, R. F., Bratslavsky, E., Muraven, M., & Tice, D. M. (1998). Ego depletion: Is the active self a limited resource? Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 74(5), 1252–1265. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.74.5.1252

  • Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

  • Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.

  • Durlak, J. A., Weissberg, R. P., Dymnicki, A. B., Taylor, R. D., & Schellinger, K. B. (2011). The impact of enhancing students’ social and emotional learning: A meta-analysis of school-based universal interventions. Child Development, 82(1), 405–432. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2010.01564.x

  • Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.

  • Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American Psychologist, 56(3), 218–226. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.56.3.218

  • Gross, J. J., & John, O. P. (2003). Individual differences in two emotion regulation processes: Implications for affect, relationships, and well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 85(2), 348–362. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.85.2.348

  • Harter, J. K., Schmidt, F. L., Agrawal, S., Plowman, S. K., & Blue, A. (2016). Gallup Q12 Meta-Analysis Report. Gallup.

  • Hayes, S. C., & Plumb, J. C. (2007). Mindfulness from the bottom up: Providing an inductive framework for understanding mindfulness processes and their application to human suffering. Psychological Inquiry, 18(4), 242–248. https://doi.org/10.1080/10478400701598314

  • Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2011). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

  • Hazelton, S. (2014). Positive emotions boost employee engagement: Making work fun brings individual and organizational success. Human Resource Management International Digest, 22(1), 34–37. https://doi.org/10.1108/HRMID-01-2014-0012

  • Kabat-Zinn, J. (1990). Full catastrophe living: Using the wisdom of your body and mind to face stress, pain, and illness. Delacorte Press.

  • Kaye, L. K., Schweiger, C., & Wall, H. J. (2023). Exploring the validity of using emoji as a self-report tool for in-the-moment mood: An Emoji PANAS approach. Computers in Human Behavior, 139, 107305. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2022.107305

  • Lane, R. D., Quinlan, D. M., Schwartz, G. E., Walker, P. A., & Zeitlin, S. B. (1990). The Levels of Emotional Awareness Scale: A cognitive-developmental measure of emotion. Journal of Personality Assessment, 55(1-2), 124–134. https://doi.org/10.1080/00223891.1990.9674052

  • Lieberman, M. D., Eisenberger, N. I., Crockett, M. J., Tom, S. M., Pfeifer, J. H., & Way, B. M. (2007). Putting feelings into words: Affect labeling disrupts amygdala activity in response to affective stimuli. Psychological Science, 18(5), 421–428. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2007.01916.x

  • Liedtka, J. (2018). Why design thinking works. Harvard Business Review, September-October. https://hbr.org/2018/09/why-design-thinking-works

  • Luthans, F., Avolio, B. J., & Avey, J. B. (2014). Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ) Manual. MindGarden.

  • Nezu, A. M. (1987). A problem-solving formulation of depression: A literature review and proposal of a pluralistic model. Clinical Psychology Review, 7(2), 121–144. https://doi.org/10.1016/0272-7358(87)90030-4

  • Plutchik, R. (1980). Emotion: A psychoevolutionary synthesis. Harper & Row.

  • Primus, D. J., & Sonnenburg, S. (2018). Flow experience in design thinking and practical synergies with Lego Serious Play. Creativity Research Journal, 30(1), 104–112. https://doi.org/10.1080/10400419.2018.1411574

  • Reivich, K., & Shatté, A. (2002). The resilience factor: 7 keys to finding your inner strength and overcoming life’s hurdles. Broadway Books.

  • Semple, R. J., & Lee, J. (2011). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for anxious children: A manual for treating childhood anxiety. New Harbinger Publications.

  • Schweiger, C. (2020). Dimensions of Emotional Awareness Assessment. Harvard Extension School.

  • Schweiger, C. (2023). FeelWise Model for Emotional Experiences. FeelWise.

  • Toussaint, L., & Webb, J. R. (2005). Gender differences in the relationship between empathy and forgiveness. The Journal of Social Psychology, 145(6), 673–685. https://doi.org/10.3200/SOCP.145.6.673-686

  • Watson, D., Clark, L. A., & Tellegen, A. (1988). Development and validation of brief measures of positive and negative affect: The PANAS scales. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 54(6), 1063–1070. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.54.6.1063

  • Wegge, J., van Dick, R., Fisher, G. K., West, M. A., & Dawson, J. F. (2006). A test of basic assumptions of Affective Events Theory (AET) in call centre work. British Journal of Management, 17(3), 237–254. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8551.2006.00489.x

  • White, M., & Epston, D. (1990). Narrative means to therapeutic ends. W.W. Norton & Company.

  • Zeidan, F., Johnson, S. K., Diamond, B. J., David, Z., & Goolkasian, P. (2010). Mindfulness meditation improves cognition: Evidence of brief mental training. Consciousness and Cognition, 19(2), 597–605. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.concog.2010.03.014

  • [Web:1] Kay Sargent (2025). Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces: Advancing Sensory Processing and Cognitive Well-Being in the Built Environment. [Source not fully verified; inferred from context].