Psychological Consequences of Seeking Validation
The pursuit for validation often begins early in life. As children, we seek approval from parents and peers to feel loved and accepted. This need to be seen and appreciated does not go away, even as adults. In fact, it can become more intense when we enter new social circles or try to establish ourselves professionally. One common source of validation is through online communities, where people create profiles and share personal details with others who may be strangers.
These spaces are not always welcoming to everyone. Some communities deny one's authenticity, based on factors such as gender identity, race, age, body type, disability status, or sexual orientation. The resulting psychological consequences can be detrimental, leading to self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
When someone seeks validation from a community that does not accept them, they may experience rejection, shame, and isolation. They may feel like they don't belong and question their own worthiness. This can lead to self-criticism and negative thoughts about themselves and their experiences. It also hinders their ability to form meaningful connections with others who might have similar interests but different backgrounds or identities. This phenomenon is known as "identity threat," which occurs when an individual's sense of belongingness is challenged by external forces.
Seeking validation from exclusionary groups can affect mental health in other ways. People may develop perfectionist tendencies, striving for impossible standards set by the group to prove their worth. They may engage in risky behaviors or substance abuse to cope with stress and rejection. Their relationships may suffer as they prioritize pleasing others over being true to themselves.
This can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and a loss of purpose.
It is essential to recognize the psychological impact of seeking validation from unsupportive communities. Instead of focusing on gaining approval, it is crucial to validate oneself through personal growth, introspection, and self-acceptance. Embracing one's authenticity allows individuals to find fulfillment and happiness in all areas of life, regardless of what others think or say.
What are the psychological consequences of seeking validation from communities that deny one's authenticity?
The need for external validation often arises when individuals feel insecure about their true selves and seek acceptance and approval from others. In some cases, people may join online or offline communities that align with their interests but have strict rules or expectations regarding behavior or appearance, leading to feelings of pressure to conform.