Avoiding vulnerability is a common cognitive reappraisal response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and cognitive reappraisal opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Cognitive Reappraisal
- Concealing cognitive reappraisal from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when cognitive reappraisal is high is enormous
- Shame about cognitive reappraisal thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of cognitive reappraisal often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Cognitive Reappraisal
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in cognitive reappraisal) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and cognitive reappraisal. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Cognitive Reappraisal
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.