Your Goal: Approach them with an easygoing attitude, ask to sit, and start a friendly conversation.
GIVE // 06
You're attending the first meeting of the Outdoor Adventure Club. Three other members are laughing and talking about a recent camping trip. You want to join the group.
Your Goal: Use validation and active interest to integrate into the conversation without dominating it.
GIVE // 07
You notice a student holding their school map upside down looking completely stressed near the main office. You recognize them from your homeroom class earlier.
Your Goal: Offer help in a gentle, warm way that validates how overwhelming the school layout is.
GIVE // 08
Your English teacher says "Pair up with the person next to you for a brainstorm." The person next to you is quiet, wearing a sweater, and staring at their blank notebook.
Your Goal: Use easygoing humor and active interest to establish a quick, comfortable connection.
Check D-E-A-R: Did speaker state clear facts & make a distinct request?
Check G-I-V-E: Did speaker show active interest & ask questions?
Tone check: Was the body language confident, open, and easygoing?
FEEDBACK NOTE:
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THE BELONGING BLUEPRINT
DBT Interpersonal Effectiveness Roleplay Series
Expanded Scenarios
These advanced scenarios challenge you to combine self-advocacy (DEAR MAN) and relationship building (GIVE) when facing realistic high school conflicts and peer group changes.
DEAR MAN // 09
You discover your biology group created a collaborative project chat without you. They're making key design decisions, leaving you completely out of the loop.
Your Goal: State the facts objectively, express how it limits your ability to contribute, and assertively ask to be added.
DEAR MAN // 10
Your algebra exam score is recorded as a C, but when you total the points manually, it is actually a B. The teacher is busy and has a reputation for being easily defensive.
Your Goal: Calmly present the math facts, maintain a highly respectful attitude, and ask for a simple review.
GIVE // 11
During free study, you see a quiet student drawing a fantastic, detailed sketch of a character in their notebook. You are also a huge fan of illustration and anime.
Your Goal: Express genuine interest in their artwork, validate their impressive talent, and start a friendly, low-stakes chat.
GIVE // 12
You're elected team captain for a PE floor hockey match. As teammates are being selected, one quiet student is left unchosen and is looking visibly uncomfortable.
Your Goal: Use gentle reassurance and an enthusiastic invitation to make them feel welcomed and valued on your team.
Which scenario was most challenging for you & why?
How did applying "GIVE" change the feel of the interaction?
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