Recovery Identity & Self-Compassion / GRP714
Shame and Responsibility Separately — Cooperative Planning Workshop
Distinguish owning an action from making a global judgment about worth.
40 minutes · 3–12 people · Adults with trained group facilitation
Facilitator PDF · Fillable participant PDF · Open activity / add to session
UNDERSTAND THE IDEA
Accountability can be specific without being shaming.
A person can acknowledge consequences and responsibility while rejecting a global label about their worth. More precise language can make repair and reconnection easier to discuss. Compassion is compatible with limits and changed behavior.
Facilitation lens: Translate a self-condemning statement into an event, impact, need, and next step. Do not require forgiveness or a positive identity statement.
Explore the conceptual background · Broad background, not validation of this original exercise.
Try a different interactive experience in the Activity Lab →
Fictional example
A member wants to repair a mistake without calling themselves hopeless.
Open with choice — 3 minutes
Explain the purpose, privacy limits, and the option to observe, use fiction, adapt, or pass. Check access needs and group readiness; do not promise absolute confidentiality.
Meet the fictional case — 4 minutes
A member wants to repair a mistake without calling themselves hopeless. Ask what is known, what is assumed, and what the person in the case wants.
Practice: Planning workshop — 26 minutes
Distinguish owning an action from making a global judgment about worth. In pairs or small groups, create two possible plans for the fictional case. Compare access, effort, likely tradeoffs, and consent. Choose one reversible trial with a backup and a review point; allow an observing role.
Reflect and compare — 4 minutes
What can be acknowledged without erasing dignity? Ask what fits, what does not, and what external conditions or supports affect the options. No personal disclosure is required.
Close and integrate — 3 minutes
Invite an optional observation, support request, or small next step. Passing is welcome. Agree how to revisit questions and seek appropriate help outside the exercise.
Practice output
A feasible plan with a support, a backup, and a review question.
Scope and adaptation
Use ordinary or fictional examples, not graphic substance-use stories or cue exposure. No competitive abstinence scoring, forced disclosure, or required pathway. These plans do not manage intoxication, overdose, withdrawal, or medication changes; follow individualized care and appropriate medical assessment.
Offer reading aloud, typing, drawing, pointing, or observation. Avoid mandatory movement, eye contact, touch, and body focus.
Original AI-assisted educational draft; independent clinical review pending.
Conceptual background
References inform broad principles and do not validate or endorse this original plan.