Internalized oppression is when an individual internalizes societal beliefs about their own group, resulting in negative self-perception, self-criticism, and self-destructive behavior. This can manifest as emotional self-sabotage, where individuals undermine themselves through thoughts, behaviors, and actions that prevent them from achieving success or happiness.
One way this occurs is through self-doubt and lack of confidence.
A marginalized person may believe they are unworthy of love because they have been conditioned to think so. They might sabotage their romantic relationships by withdrawing, avoiding intimacy, or picking partners who reinforce those feelings of worthlessness. Another way is through perfectionism and procrastination. Someone may feel like they must be perfect to receive validation but never reach it, leading to anxiety, shame, and paralyzation. They may delay important tasks, avoid risk-taking, or engage in other self-defeating behaviors.
Another common form is codependency. Marginalized people may rely on others for approval or validation, which leads to manipulative or co-dependent relationships. They may accept abuse or tolerate harmful situations due to a fear of abandonment or rejection. This can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Individuals may use addiction or distraction as a coping mechanism. They may turn to substances, gambling, workaholism, shopping, or other activities to numb pain or escape reality. This can damage physical and mental health while perpetuating the cycle of low self-esteem and negative behavior.
To break free from internalized oppression and emotional self-sabotage, marginalized individuals need supportive communities, positive role models, and self-compassion. They should challenge negative beliefs and learn to value themselves without external validation. They should set achievable goals and celebrate small victories along the way. They should practice mindfulness, self-care, and self-acceptance. With time and effort, they can learn to trust their own judgment, voice, and potential, creating a more fulfilling life with fewer cycles of sabotage.
How does internalized oppression perpetuate cycles of emotional self-sabotage?
Internalized oppression is a form of prejudice that occurs when an individual internalizes negative stereotypes about their social group and adopts them as truths about themselves. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, self-doubt, and lack of self-worth, which can then manifest in behaviors such as procrastination, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-sacrifice.