Self-flagellating
Adjective describing a person who engages in self-punishment, either physically or psychologically, often as a form of atonement or to cope with guilt and personal failure. This term can also denote excessive self-criticism or metacognitive awareness of one’s own faults, leading to a cycle of self-inflicted emotional or mental distress.
Self-flagellating meaning with examples
- Despite her many accomplishments, Jane often found herself self-flagellating over minor mistakes, replaying past errors in her mind until they overshadowed her successes. This pattern of behavior detracted from her ability to enjoy her present life and achievements, leaving her in a constant state of guilt and anxiety.
- In therapy, Mark realized that his habit of self-flagellating stemmed from an inability to forgive himself for past decisions. His therapist encouraged him to reframe his perspective, focusing on growth and learning instead of punishment, which ultimately helped him to cultivate a healthier self-image.
- During the team meeting, Tom’s self-flagellating attitude became apparent when he dissected his role in a failed project, blaming himself for every misstep. His colleagues tried to reassure him, emphasizing shared responsibility, but Tom was entrenched in a cycle of guilt, unable to shift from self-reproach to constructive dialogue.
- As a result of years of self-flagellating behavior, Maria found that she had developed an irrational fear of failure. Instead of pursuing new opportunities, she often held back, believing that any mistakes would only lead to further self-condemnation. This mindset stifled her creativity and potential.
