Presentation of ideas or oneself is open to feedback, such as praise or criticism. While praise is preferable, criticism can be necessary or expected. Learning how to handle criticism is a life skill that leads to growth and self-awareness.
Criticism: Constructive vs Destructive
Constructive criticism, feedback intended to improve one's future performance by specifically indicating areas for improvement, differs from destructive criticism, which intentionally seeks to insult the recipient with harsh and negative language about their work and effort. Constructive criticism tends to be a positive form of feedback, whereas destructive criticism can negatively affect a person’s capability.
Check out the YouTube channel 'The Student Success Coach,' which has published a video explaining the two forms of criticism while providing advice on how to give and receive constructive criticism.
Watch the video here:
Accepting Constructive Criticism
Whether constructive or not, criticism is tough to hear and accept. However, constructive criticism is aimed at improvement, something one can maturely handle and learn from.
Nicole Lindsay, a writer from The Muse, authored an advice article
on ways to accept constructive criticism, which ranges from showing appreciation
for the response, to patiently hearing your critic out, and avoiding
defensiveness.
Read more here: https://www.themuse.com/advice/taking-constructive-criticism-like-a-champ
How To Take Criticism Well
Lowering expectations to facilitate improvement is important; for instance, aiming for a perfect score or an A+ can set unrealistic standards. For individuals who strive for high marks, it's helpful to develop strategies to maintain composure when receiving feedback.
The article 'How to Take Criticism Well When You Are Sensitive to Criticism: Mental Health Guide' by Youth Employment describes what not to do during feedback. Following these steps can lead to a better mental state and enable using criticism to improve both your work and personal self later in life.
Find more here: https://www.youthemployment.org.uk/criticism-at-work-with-mental-health-struggles/
What are your thoughts on constructive and destructive criticism? Let us know in the comments!
Featuring…
Understanding
The Spectrum – A Comic Strip Explanation
This enlightening comic strip, written by Rebecca Burgess, serves as a valuable tool for understanding the diverse experiences within autism. Burgess's comic highlights the concept that the autism spectrum is not linear, but rather resembles a color wheel, with different areas representing various challenges and strengths.
This comic could serve as an educational resource for educators, medical providers, therapists, family members, self-advocates, and more. Find the full version on the Art of Autism site here: https://the-art-of-autism.com/understanding-the-spectrum-a-comic-strip-explanation/
SPAN Youth Chats: Now Monthly!
Join us on the SPAN Youth Chat (For Ages 14-26) monthly on May 29th, from 4:15 - 5:00 p.m.: The SPAN Youth Chat for Ages 14-26
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Resources...
Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.
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