Sleman, Indonesia – On February 14, 2025, the Jogjakarta Montessori Middle School (JMMS) students embarked on an engaging discussion about psychology, featuring the psychologist Ms. Maria Ratih Maharani, M.Psi., Psikolog, talking about self-image and self-love in adolescents thoroughly and interactively.

During this session, Ms. Maria shared about the characteristics of adolescents, highlighting the identity crisis that typically occurs between the ages of 12 and 18. At this stage, teenagers begin exploring their identities while struggling with self-perception, becoming aware of their strengths and weaknesses, past experiences, body image concerns, family issues, and external pressures that shape them. Teenagers are vulnerable to social-emotional struggles like depression, anxiety, trust issues, challenges in friendships and relationships, and a lack of motivation that can even take a toll on academic performance.

Therefore, the students are encouraged to care more for themselves by recognizing their strengths and imperfections and focusing on personal growth while maintaining empathy and respect in their relationships with friends, parents, and others who have a significant presence in their lives. Ultimately, this session emphasized the beauty of self-love by receiving secure attachments and the fulfillment of basic emotional needs such as trust, autonomy, and a sense of belonging as an essential preparation for adulthood, where individuals will seek meaningful relationships and share love with others. A notable quote from Ms. Maria is, “One cannot give love to others if they feel incomplete within themselves,” motivating students to reflect on their positive and negative self-perceptions.

In an interactive activity, the students were divided into groups and asked to create affirmation papers, drawing themselves and writing down positive qualities about themselves and their peers. This exercise helped them recognize their worth and appreciate the love and support they receive from those around them. At the end of the session, the students were asked to take a selfie freely, capturing a sweet, heartfelt moment of self-expression and reflection. A simple yet meaningful activity that allowed them to celebrate themselves.

The event left a lasting impact, inspiring students to embrace their uniqueness and develop a healthier, more confident self-image.

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