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.

Inspiration Behind FeelWise

FeelWise stems from Tina Schweiger’s passion for quantifying emotions, informed by her background in art, design, and psychology. Her early career creating emotionally resonant visual experiences highlighted the power of colors and symbols to convey feelings intuitively (Schweiger, 2023). Schweiger noted that varying literacy and cultural interpretations create a disconnect in verbal emotion definitions, inspiring tools that leverage universal visual recognition (Schweiger, 2023). Personal challenges, including a 2022 craniotomy and supporting her family through cancer, underscored the need for tools to accept emotions as natural signals (Schweiger, 2023).

FeelWise’s pink owl, colorful emotion wheels, and expressive emojis engage users intuitively, validated by Schweiger’s research on emoji-based mood assessment (Kaye et al., 2023). These tools enable users to identify emotions, practice self-compassion, and extend positivity through community connection, as exemplified by Schweiger’s Operation Turkey initiative (Schweiger, 2023).

The FEEL Framework

The FEEL Framework—Find Your Emotions, Embrace Mindfulness, Evolve Through Resilience, Love and Connect—transforms emotional awareness into growth (Schweiger, 2023). Inspired by Schweiger’s resilience through adversity, it integrates tools like the 156 Emotion Cards, 48 Mindfulness Cards, Super EQ Kit, and Feelalytics software:

• Find Your Emotions: Name emotions as “visitors” for clarity.

• Embrace Mindfulness: Practice techniques like box breathing to ground users.

• Evolve Through Resilience: Pair emotions (e.g., fear) with mindsets (e.g., optimism) for growth.

• Love and Connect: Foster empathy and storytelling for community uplift.

Visual aids, such as diagrams for trauma exercises, enhance accessibility, particularly for neurodiverse users (Schweiger, 2023).

Research Foundation

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 (Schweiger, 2023).
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) 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 (Schweiger, 2023).
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” (Schweiger, 2023).
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 (Schweiger, 2023).
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 (Schweiger, 2023).
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. Emotional Complexity and Nuance

Feature: 156 Emotions Deck and Feelalytics capture layered emotions within the FEEL Framework (Schweiger, 2023).
Benefit: Enhances emotional literacy by recognizing overlapping emotions, improving communication.
Research: Schweiger (2020) correlated blend awareness with optimism (r=0.31). Plutchik’s (1980) model was critiqued for oversimplification. Schweiger’s grid model clusters nuanced emotions (Schweiger, 2020; Plutchik, 1980; Schweiger, 2023).

7. Neurodiverse and Trauma-Informed Design

Feature: Emotion decals, visual wheels, and predictable structures in the Super EQ Kit ensure inclusivity (Schweiger, 2023).
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]).

8. Interpersonal and Community Connection

Feature: Group tools like educator kits and Feelalytics, plus activities like Client Emotion Mapping, support “Love and Connect” (Schweiger, 2023).
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; Schweiger, 2023).

9. Flow States and Engagement

Feature: Structured activities like Leadership Emotion Audit, inspired by ESM, engage users within the FEEL Framework (Schweiger, 2023; Schweiger, 2020).
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. Schweiger’s ESM proposal measured engagement (Csikszentmihalyi, 1990; Primus & Sonnenburg, 2018; Schweiger, 2020).

10. Resilience and Adversity Navigation

Feature: Super EQ Kit and 8-Step Emotional Processing Method guide users through “Evolve Through Resilience” (Schweiger, 2023).
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; Schweiger, 2023).

11. Evidence-Based and Accessible Science

Feature: No-tech, low-cost tools like the Emotions Deck and Mindfulness Cards ensure scalability (Schweiger, 2023).
Benefit: Democratizes EI, making it accessible to diverse organizations.
Research: Kaye et al. (2023) validated accessible emoji tools. Schweiger (2020) critiqued paywalled EI models. Watson et al. (1988) informed accessible scales (Kaye et al., 2023; Schweiger, 2020; Watson et al., 1988).

12. Design Thinking and Innovation

Feature: Affinity clustering in the grid-based model and human-centered design in tool development reflect design thinking (Schweiger, 2023).
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 (Primus & Sonnenburg, 2018; Liedtka, 2018; Schweiger, 2023).

13. Physical and Somatic Awareness

Feature: Trauma exercises in Mindfulness Cards identify emotions’ bodily manifestations, supporting “Embrace Mindfulness” (Schweiger, 2023).
Benefit: Enhances emotional processing by connecting feelings to physical sensations, aiding trauma recovery.
Research: Schweiger (2020) validated somatic awareness. Nezu (1987) supported somatic mindfulness. Zeidan et al. (2010) showed body-based practices reduce stress (Schweiger, 2020; Nezu, 1987; Zeidan et al., 2010).

14. Positive Psychology and Thriving

Feature: Thriving mindsets in the FEEL Framework and group tools promote flourishing (Schweiger, 2023).
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; Schweiger, 2023).

15. Scalability and Organizational Integration

Feature: LMS-compatible tools and no-tech kits integrate into L&D, healthcare, and educational settings (Schweiger, 2023).
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 (All about FeelWise 2024 (2).pdf, p. 2).
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” (All about FeelWise 2024 (2).pdf, p. 3).
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” (All about FeelWise 2024 (2).pdf, p. 4).
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 (All about FeelWise 2024 (2).pdf, p. 5, 9).
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 (All about FeelWise 2024 (2).pdf, p. 6).
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” (All about FeelWise 2024 (2).pdf, p. 7).
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 (All about FeelWise 2024 (2).pdf, p. 8).
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).

Practical Applications

FeelWise’s tools integrate into diverse settings (Schweiger, 2023):

• Educators: Alvord Unified School District reduces behavioral incidents with emotion cards.

• Therapists: Texas Neuro decreases outbursts with emotion decals.

• L&D Professionals: Team check-ins boost engagement.

• Healthcare Providers: Fair Haven fosters inclusivity with emotion wheels.

ESM-inspired activities enhance engagement, aligning with organizational goals (Schweiger, 2020).

Validation Through Case Studies

Case studies validate FeelWise’s impact (Schweiger, 2023):

• Zena Collins: Enhances emotional literacy with emotion cards.

• Upbring: Supports trauma care in foster families.

• Vita Program: Deepens peer connections via storytelling.

These outcomes reinforce the FEEL Framework’s efficacy.

Conclusion

FeelWise, guided by the FEEL Framework, combines rigorous academic research with therapeutic and innovative tools to revolutionize EI. Its 15 research-backed features and seven therapeutic applications make it invaluable for educators, therapists, L&D professionals, and healthcare providers. Explore case studies at www.feel-wise.com or contact Tina Schweiger at tina@feel-wise.com.

References

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