Here is a resource for educators, youth workers, mental health professionals, social workers, juvenile justice counsellors and anyone involved with young people.

Reflexions is designed for use with young people who, in the process of growth towards independence, are creating their own identities. The cards provide a way of considering how we are seen by others and the choices we make about our own feelings and thoughts.

Using contemporary street and techno-style collage illustrations, Reflexions can help teachers, youth workers and other human service professionals deepen conversations with young people about the issues that concern them. Each card features a single word to guide participants towards identifying and naming reactions to their circumstances.

A versatile, conversation-building resource, Reflexions can be used with groups, individuals and families. Over the years, it has also proven an effective resource to use with boys struggling to express their emotions.

• Which of the cards show thoughts or feelings you feel in control of? Which ones push you around?
• When a family member is enacting one of these thoughts or feelings, how to other members react?
• How are your feelings or thoughts like those of your friends or family? How are they different?
• Do you feel under pressure from family, friends, peers or work mates to hide any of these thoughts or feelings?

While we did wonder if the look of this resource might date, the appeal of Reflexionshas proven remarkably long-lasting. The ability of Reflexions to help young people identify and reflect on their choices, and re-story their lives, makes it a powerful tool for hope and change.

Published by Innovative Resources, 2001
32 laminated, full-colour cards, 210 x 148mm
Polypropylene box, 24-page booklet
Booklet author: Russell Deal
Designer and photographer: Tim Lane