Reptilian brain · Threat Response
Fawn / Tend-and-Befriend
Appeasing a threat by pleasing it — agreeing, flattering, mirroring — to reduce danger; a genuine stress response, common in people who learned early that compliance was safest.
An everyday example
Agreeing with an aggressive counterpart's every point and volunteering concessions to make the tension stop.
What it can cost you
Giving away terms to buy calm, and mistaking relief for a good outcome.
Warning signs
- I said yes to end the discomfort.
- I found myself agreeing with things I disagree with.
One thing to do
Notice appeasement in your own voice; stop conceding, name the tension, and postpone.
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