Submissive behavior may be necessary or advisable when it is physically dangerous or socially inappropriate to express oneself more directly. Submissiveness is a problem, however, if it is our usual way of responding to others. Submissive behavior seeks to avoid conflict, risky situations, and confusion. Our communication is emotionally dishonest when we do not directly express our thoughts, feelings, and desires. We may withhold entirely or express ourselves indirectly. We may say “yes” to others when we want to say “no.” Submissiveness as a lifestyle revolves around the belief that our rights to personal space or to engage in efforts to meet our personal needs are subject to the approval of others. When we are prevented from getting what we require, we may try to meet our needs in a passive-aggressive manner, or by withholding, guilt, manipulation, or sneakiness. When we are submissive, we may blame ourselves for this perceived denial of rights and attempt to calm the situation with apologies or by talking around the point. We may agree to do things we really do not want to do. Allowing violations of boundaries, denial of rights, and exploitation, coupled with an ignorance of our own needs, are all part of a pattern of avoiding conflict and gaining the approval of others. “You” statements, which proclaim innocence and blame others, and assumptions that others should meet our needs, avoid personal vulnerability and responsibility. A reduced sense of “being alive,” unsatisfactory relationships, low self-esteem, martyrdom, negativity, disappointment, hurt, not getting what we want, and periodic outbursts of rage are characteristic consequences of submissiveness.
Posted on: Wed, 04 Dec 2013 12:42:27 +0000
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