Speaking of Psychology
How to say ‘no’: The power of defiance, with Sunita Sah, PhD
Feb 12, 2025
Sunita Sah, PhD, an organizational psychologist and author, dives into the challenges of saying 'no' in a world that pressures us to comply. She explores the empowering nature of defiance and its alignment with personal values. Topics include the critical differences between consent and compliance, and practical techniques to resist social pressures. Sah also discusses the 'voice empathy gap' in nursing, shedding light on the need for better communication across hierarchical structures. An insightful conversation on standing firm and asserting oneself!
39:12
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Quick takeaways
- Defiance, often mischaracterized as negative, is reframed as a vital expression of personal integrity and social responsibility.
- The distinction between compliance and consent is critical, emphasizing that true consent requires the freedom to say no when necessary.
Deep dives
Redefining Defiance
Defiance is often misunderstood as a negative trait associated with rebellion, but it can be a positive force that aligns with one's values. The guest offers a new definition, framing defiance as acting in accordance with one's values despite social pressures. Personal experiences illustrate how early conditioning equates obedience with goodness, leading to a reluctance to speak up in critical situations. This reframing encourages individuals to embrace defiance as a necessary tool for personal integrity and social responsibility.
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