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social-emotional learning

American  
[soh-shuhl-i-moh-shuh-nl lur-ning] / ˈsoʊ ʃəl ɪˈmoʊ ʃə nl ˈlɜr nɪŋ /

noun

Education, Psychology.
  1. the process of acquiring interpersonal and emotional skills such as empathy, cooperation, conflict resolution, self-awareness, and self-control. SEL


Etymology

Origin of social-emotional learning

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

But while it may have a new term, social-emotional learning has always been a vital function of education.

From Salon Mar. 30, 2026

They also teach lessons in career guidance or social-emotional learning, provide one-on-one counseling for students, and connect parents to resources like food banks, grief counselors and legal assistance.

From Los Angeles Times Nov. 23, 2025

Schools now provide increased social-emotional learning and mental health support.

From Slate Aug. 3, 2024

Themes of the show include friendship, adventures, social-emotional learning and expressive writing.

From Washington Post Mar. 31, 2023

The year started with an emphasis on social-emotional learning, to address the difficulties students have faced.

From Seattle Times Sep. 15, 2022

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