Emotional Intelligence • Change Management

The SCARF Model

Published: Feb 2026 • 7 min read • Curated by Aurora
STATUS CERTAINTY AUTONOMY RELATEDNESS FAIRNESS THE FIVE DOMAINS OF SOCIAL EXPERIENCE

The 'Why'

Developed by David Rock, the SCARF model explains how the brain treats social threats and rewards with the same intensity as physical ones.

Practical Application

Allow employees to give themselves feedback first (increasing Autonomy) and provide clear, consistent metrics (increasing Certainty).

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Executive Discussion

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