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The iceberg theory … but make it horsey!
This visual poster explains the concept of masking, showing the clear difference between what can be seen on the outside and what may be experienced underneath.
The resource uses a simple muck heap model to break this down. The top section shows behaviours that are often praised or misunderstood, such as being quiet, well behaved, doing well at school or appearing to cope. Under the surface, it highlights the effort behind these behaviours, including copying others, forcing social interaction, hiding confusion and trying not to stand out. Deeper levels explore the emotional and mental health impact, such as anxiety, overwhelm, exhaustion, meltdowns at home and feeling different. At the deepest level, it shows the longer term impact on self-esteem, identity, help-seeking and fear of judgement.
This resource is to help build awareness of masking behaviour - particularly in children and young people. It helps others understand behaviour that may otherwise be misread, supporting a more compassionate and informed response. It can be used to start conversations about emotional wellbeing, mental health, behaviour and unmet needs.
Suitable for parents, carers, teachers, SEN staff, equine facilitated practitioners, riding instructors, social workers, therapists, counsellors and other professionals working with children and teenagers.
Free to download :)
The iceberg theory … but make it horsey!
This visual poster explains the concept of masking, showing the clear difference between what can be seen on the outside and what may be experienced underneath.
The resource uses a simple muck heap model to break this down. The top section shows behaviours that are often praised or misunderstood, such as being quiet, well behaved, doing well at school or appearing to cope. Under the surface, it highlights the effort behind these behaviours, including copying others, forcing social interaction, hiding confusion and trying not to stand out. Deeper levels explore the emotional and mental health impact, such as anxiety, overwhelm, exhaustion, meltdowns at home and feeling different. At the deepest level, it shows the longer term impact on self-esteem, identity, help-seeking and fear of judgement.
This resource is to help build awareness of masking behaviour - particularly in children and young people. It helps others understand behaviour that may otherwise be misread, supporting a more compassionate and informed response. It can be used to start conversations about emotional wellbeing, mental health, behaviour and unmet needs.
Suitable for parents, carers, teachers, SEN staff, equine facilitated practitioners, riding instructors, social workers, therapists, counsellors and other professionals working with children and teenagers.
Free to download :)