Multiamory: Rethinking Modern Relationships 517 - Breaking the Approval Cycle
Feb 18, 2025
In this discussion, the hosts tackle the deep-rooted need for approval and its effects on relationships. They dissect the differences between approval-seeking and people-pleasing, while exploring how personality traits influence these behaviors. Insights into 'approval addiction' reveal its impact on self-esteem and communication. The conversation also highlights the struggle of balancing self-worth with the pursuit of validation, and emphasizes self-discovery through disconnecting from social media. Practical tips for healthier relationships are shared, promoting emotional well-being.
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Approval Seeking vs People Pleasing
- Approval seeking focuses on desiring validation, while people pleasing involves actions to please others even if it compromises oneself.
- Approval seeking can motivate, whereas people pleasing often involves self-betrayal or eroding boundaries.
Hosts Share Personal Approval Experiences
- Emily shared she seeks approval more at work, people pleasing more in relationships, improving after a tough relationship ended.
- Dedeker and Jace noted how approval seeking influenced their dynamic, becoming a kind of love language between them.
Approval Seeking Linked to Anxiety
- Studies correlate low self-esteem with higher approval seeking and link approval seeking with increased anxiety.
- Approval seeking combined with social media use correlates with higher anxiety, especially for introverts.