Core Concepts
Therapy-speak terms are increasingly used in mainstream conversations, but their misuse can oversimplify complex human experiences and relationships, leading to potential misunderstandings and hindering progress in personal growth.
Abstract
Therapy-speak terms have become prevalent in everyday conversations, introducing new vocabulary but also risking oversimplification. While these terms can validate experiences, they may lack nuance and pathologize normal behaviors. It is essential to reflect on the intention behind using therapy-speak and consider the impact of these labels on communication and relationships.
Stats
"a pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy," according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
"It’s referring to trauma from one’s mother, is my understanding."
"traumatic events are often severe, like abuse or mass shootings."
"That is a stress response. It’s one that would affect you at a physiological level."
"Why am I saying that this is toxic?"
"Is canceling plans at the last minute boundary-setting when you do it but narcissistic when done by someone else?"
Quotes
"People encounter stressful situations regularly — and those experiences shouldn’t be discounted — but there are other ways to describe a tense relationship with the in-laws instead of the word 'trauma.'"
"Consider your intention when using therapy-speak."
"Use more words, not fewer, to describe a situation."