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Self-Destructive Behavior
Self-Destructive Behavior
Self-destructive behaviors are actions that we engage in which cause harm to ourselves physically, emotionally, or mentally. This list below does not do justice to the innate creativity we have in sabotaging ourselves! There are infinite possibilities in which we can engage in self-destructive behavior and it can often occur outside our awareness. The breadth, depth, and complexity of self-sabotage are truly astonishing, reflecting a vast array of ingenious yet detrimental ways in which we can undermine our own well-being.
Self-Destructive Behavior Examples
Self-Destructive Behavior Examples
Agent Misuse
Consuming things you probably shouldn't
Internet Misuse
Excessive social media use
Excessive web use
Online gambling
Compulsive online shopping
Eating Behaviors
Binge eating / Compulsive overeating
Purging
Food restriction
Emotional eating
Thought Behaviors
Negative self-talk
Denial
Ignoring problems
Catastrophizing
Overthinking
Pessimism
Self-Harm
Cutting
Burning
Hitting
Hair pulling
Relationship Behaviors
Abusive/toxic relationships
Emotional manipulation
Isolation
Sabotaging relationships
Habitual lying
Harboring resentment
Codependency
Financial Behaviors
Overspending
Oversaving
Compulsive shopping
Gambling
Work Behaviors
Procrastination
Perfectionism
Workaholism
Underachievement
Overachievement
Health Behaviors
Neglecting personal hygiene
Ignoring symptoms
Poor sleep habits
Thrill Seeking
Engaging in dangerous sports or activities
Unprotected sex
Reckless driving
Why Do We Sabotage?
Why Do We Sabotage?
Self-destructive behavior can occur due to a plethora of factors, often resulting from a complex interplay of these influences. These behaviors may serve as a means for us to avoid or escape pain and discomfort, providing a temporary reprieve from overwhelming emotions. We may engage in self-destructive actions to gain a sense of control in situations where we feel powerless. Unresolved grief and loss, as well as trauma, can drive us to these harmful behaviors as a way to cope with lingering emotional pain. Negative thought patterns, low self-esteem, and feelings of worthlessness often underpin self-destructive actions, reinforcing a cycle of self-sabotage. Further still, environmental, biological, and social factors can exacerbate our propensity for self-destructive actions, creating a multifaceted and deeply rooted issue.
How Therapy Can Help
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy can be a powerful tool in helping us address self-destructive behaviors by providing us with the necessary support and strategies to break free from harmful patterns. Through therapy, we gain valuable insight into the etiology of our behaviors, exploring what drives us to sabotage. Successful progress is conditional on the factors at play. Once the etiology is determined, therapy can focus on modifying the contextual factors that maintain these behaviors. By understanding the environmental triggers and reinforcers, we can work on altering our interactions with these contexts.
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