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Sep 2024
42m 58s

232. Why do we hate criticism?

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About this episode

When someone criticises us we naturally feel on edge and defensive. This is because criticism threatens our ego and our sense of self and so we have a very emotional reaction. But that doesn't have to be the case. In today's episode, we break down:

  • What makes us so sensitive to criticism
  • Hypercritical parenting and an aversion to feedback 
  • Rejection sensitivity and criticism 
  • The differences between criticism and feedback
  • How to properly approach criticism
  • When the criticism isn't worth your time

All of that and more as we unpack the psychology behind criticism. Listen now! 

Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast

For business: psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com 

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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