We seek approval and acceptance from others from "summary" of The Social Animal by Elliot Aronson
As social animals, we are wired to seek approval and acceptance from others. This innate drive stems from our deep-rooted need for social connection and belonging. Throughout our lives, from childhood to adulthood, we constantly seek validation from our peers, family members, and society at large. This desire for approval often governs our thoughts, actions, and decisions, as we navigate the complex web of social interactions. The need for approval manifests in various ways in our daily lives. We may alter our behavior to conform to societal norms, seeking acceptance from our social circles. We may seek validation through accomplishments and achievements, hoping to gain recognition and praise from others. This need for approval can also influence our self-esteem and sense of worth, as we internalize the judgments and opinions of those around us. Our pursuit of approval and acceptance is deeply rooted in evolutionary psychology. In our ancestral past, survival depended on our ability to form strong social bonds and alliances. Seeking approval from others ensured our inclusion in social groups, increasing our chances of survival and reproduction. This instinctual drive for approval has been ingrained in our psyche over generations, shaping our social behaviors and interactions. While the desire for approval can be a powerful motivator, it can also have negative consequences. Constantly seeking external validation can lead to feelings of insecurity, anxiety, and self-doubt. Relying on others for approval can also limit our autonomy and hinder our personal growth. It is essential to strike a balance between seeking approval from others and cultivating self-acceptance and self-validation. Understanding the concept of seeking approval and acceptance from others can help us navigate our social relationships more effectively. By recognizing the underlying motivations behind our behaviors, we can make conscious choices that align with our values and beliefs. Building self-awareness and self-confidence can help us reduce our dependence on external validation and cultivate a sense of inner fulfillment and contentment.
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