Ever cried in a supervisor's office (or have someone cry in your office)? Or watched someone shut down the moment you started giving feedback? That's what happens when we skip affirmation and jump straight to problems.

This week we dive into Affirmation, the second dimension of the CARING Framework.

In This Episode

• Why Self-Determination Theory says competence is essential for motivation
• The research on strength-based vs deficit-based feedback (spoiler: strengths win)
• Mental health data: why "we all turned out fine" doesn't match reality
• Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria and my personal story
• Two complete demos: student essay + workplace executive summary
• Option A (AI drafts for you) vs Option B (AI coaches you to draft)

Plus: Why this takes longer than generic prompts—and why caring always requires time. You're training yourself to scan for competence first.

Resources

Watch the full YouTube tutorial: https://youtu.be/6c7G1Sqc2IE

Get Week 3 Instructions (Options A & B): https://thecaringframework.substack.com/s/instructions

The CARING Framework is a research-based approach to using AI for more intentional, empathetic communication. New episodes every week.

Research

• Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being.
• Hiemstra, D., & Van Yperen, N. W. (2015). The effects of strength-based versus deficit-based self-regulated learning strategies on students' effort intentions.
• World Health Organization. (2022, March 2). COVID-19 pandemic triggers 25% increase in prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mental health of older adults.