Social Inhibition 😰

🧠 Psych - 97 / 100

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Let’s continue to learn about Social Inhibition 😰. 

What is it?

Social inhibition is a conscious or subconscious avoidance of a situation or social interaction.

With a high level of social inhibition, situations are avoided because of the possibility of others disapproving of their feelings or expressions.

Examples -

​You may, for example, speak softer or keep funny jokes to yourself when you are around new people versus when you are in the presence of one very close friend. [1]

Where does it occur?

Social inhibition may take many forms, including our behavior, appearance, or complete withdrawal from a situation. Regularly avoiding parties, festivals, or big conferences may be seen as social inhibition. Being the person at a party who prefers to sit with the host’s dog instead of introducing yourself to new people may be considered social inhibition. Keeping your arms crossed and head hunched while in a crowd may also be considered a form of social inhibition.

Again, there is still research to be done on this subject, and a lot goes into whether your behaviors are driven by fear, anxiety, or more practical factors. Staying in for the night to avoid spending money may not be a sign of social anxiety, although using this as an excuse every day to avoid talking to people may be a sign of high social inhibition. [1]

Why do I need to know?

Interestingly enough, social inhibition isn’t just about being shy. People who are regularly socially inhibited don’t just “miss out” or fail to make friends.

By avoiding certain situations or interactions, we may be reducing our ability to learn and grow.

Takeaways:-

Reducing social inhibition doesn’t just give people more opportunities to make friends or network. By reducing this inhibition, a person can engage more with the world around them, allowing them to learn, grow, and problem-solve.

References & Studies: -

1. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2017-28295-010

2. https://practicalpie.com/social-inhibition/

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