What Brings Real Joy? Exploring Emotions with the Plutchik Wheel
As part of the EMBRACE #KnowEmotions campaign, we are dedicating this week to the fundamental emotion of Joy. We explore emotions through the lens of psychologist Robert Plutchik’s Wheel of Emotions, a comprehensive theory showing how eight basic emotions (including joy, trust, fear, and sadness) connect and transform into one another.
Joy is found in the small things. Moments of laughter, play, connection, and imagination that bring colour back into our days and help young people grow with confidence. Sometimes joy feels like a rebellion, a quiet act of hope in uncertain times.
Critically, Plutchik’s model highlights that Joy is the direct opposite of Sadness, making it a key element in building overall emotional balance and resilience. Finding happiness in small things is not about ignoring challenges, but about building strength through connection and creativity.
The EMBRACE Squad on Joy
In our new animated video, the EMBRACE characters take viewers on a journey to discover this essential part of emotional well-being:
- 💡 Sparky discovers joy through creativity and imagination.
- 🤝 Maya and Leo share laughter that strengthens their bonds.
- 🎶 Ana finds joy through music.
Together, they show that joy is a vital part of growing up and building resilience.
“Find joy in the ordinary and see how it transforms the extraordinary.”
Resources & Mission
By promoting emotional literacy, participatory learning, and resilience, the EMBRACE CERV PROJECT supports children, families, and educators in nurturing healthy emotional development.
Watch the new animation here:
EN: https://youtu.be/EYXWHojiUks
RO: https://youtu.be/6epJBTUnOyc
Learn more about the Plutchik Wheel: Feelings Have Layers: Exploring the Plutchik Wheel of Emotions
