IMPROVING EMOTIONAL BALANCE OF AT-RISK STUDENTS THROUGH GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING USING A LOVE-BASED CURRICULUM APPROACH

Abstract

Emotional balance is essential for everyone, including at-risk students, as it helps them overcome challenges and live their daily lives more effectively. This study aims to develop and test the effectiveness of guidance and counseling services using a love-based curriculum approach to improve the emotional balance of at-risk students. This research employed a mixed-method Research and Development (R&D) design using the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). The analysis and design stages utilized a qualitative approach through interviews and observations involving 37 students at MAN Kota Palangka Raya in the 2024/2025 academic year. The implementation and evaluation stages used a quantitative approach with statistical analysis techniques to measure the effectiveness of the love-based curriculum. The findings revealed that guidance and counseling services with a love-based curriculum approach were effective in enhancing the emotional balance of at-risk students, as indicated by an 89.2% reduction in anxiety levels, a 91.9% increase in the ability to manage negative emotions, and a 62.2% improvement in positive interpersonal relationships. The indicators of success for the love-based curriculum include increased empathy, self-awareness, and social skills, while the indicators of emotional balance include reduced anxiety, improved management of negative emotions, and enhanced interpersonal relationships. In conclusion, guidance and counseling services using a love-based curriculum approach are highly effective in improving the emotional balance of at-risk students through the implementation of dzikir therapy, Peer Guidance (Bimbingan Teman Sebaya), and huma betang counseling.