Self-suppression
Self-suppression is the act of consciously restraining one's feelings, thoughts, or actions, often to conform to societal expectations or to avoid conflict. It can manifest in various forms, including emotional denial, intellectual self-doubt, or the avoidance of expressing one's true opinions. While it may serve to maintain social harmony, excessive self-suppression can lead to internal conflict, decreased self-esteem, and mental health challenges.
Self-suppression meaning with examples
- During the meeting, Sarah practiced self-suppression by holding back her concerns about the project's direction, fearing that her input might be unwelcome and create tension among her colleagues. This internal struggle left her feeling unfulfilled and frustrated, ultimately affecting her engagement in the project.
- As a child, Thomas learned self-suppression in his family, where expressing emotions was discouraged. He often found himself bottling up feelings, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms in adulthood, such as isolation and anxiety, as he wrestled with the urge to voice his true thoughts.
- In many cultures, self-suppression can be a learned behavior, especially among individuals who feel that their beliefs or identities are at odds with societal norms. This was evident in Maria, who often avoided discussing her creative aspirations, fearing judgment from her traditional family.
- Reflecting on her therapy sessions, Jane realized that her tendency towards self-suppression stemmed from early experiences where she was told to 'keep quiet' about her feelings. She began to work on articulating her emotions more openly, recognizing the benefits of self-expression.
- In the pursuit of career advancement, David struggled with self-suppression, often silencing his innovative ideas to align with his boss's preferences. The realization that his authenticity was being compromised prompted him to reconsider how to present his thoughts more confidently.
