Social validation is the process of seeking approval from others in order to feel good about ourselves. It can be seen as a form of self-regulation where we seek external validation for our thoughts, feelings, actions, and beliefs. This validation can come in many forms such as compliments, positive feedback, praise, recognition, and attention.
It can also take negative forms such as criticism, disapproval, rejection, and shame. Social validation plays an important role in emotional and psychological wellbeing because it helps us regulate our mood, boost our confidence, increase our motivation, reduce anxiety and stress levels, improve our social skills, and enhance our sense of belongingness. In this article, we will explore the different ways that social validation affects our mental health and how we can use it to promote our overall wellbeing.
When we receive validation from others, our brains release dopamine which creates a feeling of pleasure and happiness. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for regulating our reward system and motivating behavior. Receiving social validation triggers the release of dopamine which makes us feel good about ourselves and motivates us to continue seeking validation in the future. On the other hand, when we don't receive validation or experience criticism, our brains release cortisol which causes feelings of anxiety and stress. Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands and is released in response to stressful situations. When we are constantly seeking validation, but not receiving it, we may become more anxious and stressed out over time.
Social validation can also help us develop better self-esteem and confidence. When we receive positive validation from others, it reinforces our belief in ourselves and increases our self-confidence. This can lead to higher levels of self-efficacy, resilience, and motivation.
When we rely too heavily on external validation, we may become dependent on it and suffer from low self-esteem when we don't receive it.
In addition to its effect on emotions, social validation can also have an impact on our physical health. Studies have shown that people who seek validation from others are at increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. When we constantly compare ourselves to others and seek approval, we may become more vulnerable to negative self-talk, rumination, and unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse and self-harm. It is important to find ways to validate ourselves internally rather than relying solely on external sources.
To promote positive social validation, focus on building strong relationships with others and engaging in activities that make you feel good about yourself. Practice gratitude, mindfulness, and self-compassion to improve your own sense of worthiness and reduce dependency on external validation.
Be aware of the potential downsides of excessive validation-seeking behavior and work towards finding a balance between internal and external validation.
What role does social validation play in emotional and psychological wellbeing?
Social validation plays an important role in shaping our self-esteem, confidence, and overall sense of well-being. It involves receiving positive feedback from others that reinforces our beliefs about ourselves, which can help us feel more secure, valued, and accepted in our social environments. Social validation also helps regulate our emotions by providing information about how other people perceive and respond to us, allowing us to better understand and navigate social situations.