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Marriage Quote by Brené Brown

“When we hear stories about shame that don’t fit with our experiences, our first reaction is often to distance ourselves from the experiences—“My mother would never say that” or “I don’t get women who don’t enjoy sex” or “She’s so naïve—her husband’s a wacko.” The distancing turns very quickly into…” quote by Brené Brown
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““When we hear stories about shame that don’t fit with our experiences, our first reaction is often to distance ourselves from the experiences—“My mother would never say that” or “I don’t get women who don’t enjoy sex” or “She’s so naïve—her husband’s a wacko.” The distancing turns very quickly into blame, judgment and separation.””

Brené Brown

About This Quote

Source Book: Daring Greatly, Brené Brown, 2012

When narratives about shame clash with personal experience, we often distance ourselves, which can quickly shift to blame and judgment.

In simple terms: People distance from shame stories, leading to blame.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and stay present with uncomfortable stories.

Themes

shame psychology empathy

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

psychological insightful

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • group discussions
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

social cognition defense mechanisms

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does distancing protect you?
  • What could you learn by staying engaged?
A Different Perspective

Distancing may prevent genuine understanding and healing.

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