Avoiding vulnerability is a common cognition response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and cognition opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Cognition
- Concealing cognition from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when cognition is high is enormous
- Shame about cognition thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of cognition often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Cognition
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in cognition) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and cognition. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Cognition
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.