When we fail to set boundaries and hold people accountable, we feel used and mistreated. This is why we sometimes attack who they are, which is far more hurtful than addressing a behavior or a choice.
Bren BrownRead
We live in a world where most people still subscribe to the belief that shame is a good tool for keeping people in line. Not only is this wrong, but it’s dangerous. Shame is highly correlated with addiction, violence, aggression, depression, eating disorders, and bullying.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Shame is a harmful tool used to control behavior, leading to negative consequences.
In this quote, Brené Brown emphasizes the detrimental effects of using shame as a means of social control. She points out that rather than promoting positive behavior, shame often correlates with various social issues such as addiction and violence, suggesting that relying on shame to manage behavior can result in far-reaching psychological harm.
Themes
ShameBehaviorControlPsychologyMental Health
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about mental health awareness, you might use this quote to discuss the importance of compassion over shame.
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Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we are.
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