Social anxiety isn't about being liked
5 hours ago
- #psychology
- #social anxiety
- #behavior
- Social anxiety may not be about wanting to be liked but about avoiding being disliked.
- Socially anxious behaviors (e.g., taking up less space, making fewer requests) align more with risk aversion than seeking approval.
- Social anxiety is a symptom of prioritizing safety (avoiding dislike) over potential rewards (being liked).
- Examples: Financial insecurity leads to avoiding high-risk investments, and countersignalling in friendships allows for risk-taking.
- Recognizing that social anxiety is rational for avoiding dislike, not failing to be liked, can shift focus to overcoming discomfort with disapproval.