Psychologists Off the Clock

108. Is Your Self-Control Out of Control? Radically Open DBT with Hope Arnold (part 1)

10 snips
Oct 22, 2019
Hope Arnold, a Senior clinician and trainer in Radically Open DBT and founder of RO DBT Denver, explores the nuances of overcontrol. She reveals how those who appear to have it all together often suffer internally, leading to rigidity and loneliness. The conversation delves into how overcontrolled behaviors impact social connections and emotional expression. Hope also discusses the traits of overcontrol, from high threat sensitivity to reduced reward responsiveness, and emphasizes the importance of emotional openness in fostering genuine connections.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Calm ER Doctor Example

  • Diana described an ER doctor who stayed calm while removing a staple from her son's finger, showing useful over-control.
  • The example highlighted how over-control can be lifesaving in high-stakes situations.
INSIGHT

Too Much Self-Control Is Harmful

  • Self-control follows a bell curve: both extreme under-control and extreme over-control link to mental health disorders.
  • Optimal mental health sits near the middle where flexibility and balanced control coexist.
ANECDOTE

Silent Joy Of An Overcontrolled Therapist

  • A therapist client saved for his dream car but showed no external excitement despite intense internal joy.
  • Hope Arnold used this to illustrate how over-control mutes both negative and positive emotions.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app