Many of us are conditioned to believe that being described as kind, nice, accommodating and generous are the key to overall happiness. But when these traits veer into Good Girl Syndrome, we can be left with a pathological need to please others, be hypervigilant towards others’ emotions, and ultimately suppress how we really feel. In this episode, we explore the origins of Good Girl Syndrome, understand the mental and physical cost of emotional suppression, and learn how to challenge this early social conditioning.
Watch on Netflix: HERE
We unpack:
- Why women are particularly vulnerable to Good Girl Syndrome
- How trying to be liked shows up personally and professionally
- The link between a high score on the Silencing the Self Scale and depression
- Why it can be harder to break Good Girl habits as we get older
- The ways we can challenge Good Girl Syndrome traits
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Our favourite sources:
https://reachlink.com/advice/general/good-girl-syndrome-why-compliance-destroys-mental-health/
https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/love-sex/relationships/a34642791/good-girl-complex/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362662346_Appendix_A_The_Silencing_the_Self_Scale
The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.
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