The feeling of not being enough can be a deeply unsettling experience that many people face at some point in their lives. It can lead to a constant need for validation from others and a persistent desire to educate oneself. Working with children presents a beautiful opportunity to observe the emergence of such needs in real time. However, the responsibility of identifying and addressing these needs is less beautiful and, falls directly on the teacher. Therefore, it is useful to understand that validation is a basic human need that is essential for emotional well-being and healthy development. It involves the feeling of being seen, heard, and acknowledged by others as you believe you deserve. When we receive validation, we feel understood, accepted, and appreciated for who we are, which helps us to build confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging.
In this article, we will explore (I) the human need for validation, its stages, how it develops, its parameters of normal and abnormal, and how to meet this need in healthy ways, and secondly (II), how and why teachers should address this need.
The Need for Validation and the Teaching
