| Presentation Proposal - NACADA Annual Conference |
| Presentation Info and Handouts |
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Code=581
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Conference Year:
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2026
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Session #:
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()
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Title:
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Beyond "Good Vibes": Cultivating Authentic Support and Validation in Academic Advising |
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Lead Presenter:
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Richard Campos |
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Date:
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December 31, 1969 Time: 6:00 pm - 6:00 pm |
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Room:
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Abstract:
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Academic advisors often intend to be supportive by promoting optimism. However, an excessive focus on a cheerful outlook becomes 'toxic positivity' when it ignores or dismisses a student's true circumstances. Toxic positivity is defined as the overgeneralization of happiness and optimism, which ultimately invalidates the real human experience through denial. This presentation aims to equip advisors with the skills to distinguish between genuinely helpful encouragement and dismissive positivity. Drawing on recent research (Goodman, 2022; Lew & Flanagin, 2023), the session will provide tools to identify the characteristics of toxic positivity in advising practice. Participants will engage in interactive activities, case studies, and open dialogue to learn how to acknowledge student struggles without minimizing them. The ultimate goal is for attendees to leave with specific communication strategies that use validation to foster authentic student resilience and self-efficacy. |
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Handouts
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Note: Handouts (if offered for this session) are accessible via the conference app. |
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