Exploring Pixar's Soul

Alessandra Sie

A final-year Psychology student passionate about child development, mental health, and

wellbeing. This module allowed me to merge my interests by developing a parent-child

discussion guide inspired by Pixar’s Soul. Currently researching Proximity of Clothing to Self

and keen to further contribute to psychological research.

Purpose and Mindfulness: A Parent-Child Discussion Guide Based on Pixar’s Soul

Understanding wellbeing is essential for children's emotional development, yet these abstract

concepts can be challenging to introduce in an engaging way. This project explores how Pixar’s

Soul can transform passive media consumption into an interactive family experience, providing

parents with a structured guide to facilitate meaningful discussions on purpose and

mindfulness. The primary outcome is a guide that includes structured discussion prompts and

activities tailored to different stages of watching the film. Key exercises, such as a “happiness

jar,” help children and parents reflect on daily moments of joy, reinforcing mindfulness

practices. To develop this resource, the project analyzedSoulthrough a wellbeing framework

and incorporated psychological principles to design accessible, engaging discussion prompts.

This guide provides families with a tool to strengthen their connections while fostering an

awareness of personal values and present-moment appreciation. This project demonstrates how

media can be a catalyst for everyday conversations on wellbeing between parents and children.

Future developments could include an expanded glossary of wellbeing concepts and interactive

digital components for greater accessibility. The interdisciplinary nature of this work – bridging

psychology, media studies, and education – illustrates how film can enhance family bonds when

integrated into daily life.