Anger and fear Quote by John Bradshaw
““Emotions are a form of energy in motion. They signal us of a loss, a threat or a satiation. Sadness is about losing something we cherish. Anger and fear are signal of actual or impending threats to our well-being. Joy signals that we are fulfilled and satisfied. Whenever a child is shamed through some form of abandonment, feelings of anger, hurt and sadness arise. Since shame-based parents are shame bound in all their emotions, they cannot tolerate their children’s emotions. Therefore, they shame their children’s emotions. When their emotions are shamed, children numb out, so they don’t feel their emotions.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Healing the Shame that Binds You, John Bradshaw, 1988
Emotions act as signals of loss, threat, or fulfillment; when shamed, children may numb to protect themselves.
In simple terms: Emotions are signals; shaming leads to numbness.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and validate emotions instead of shaming.
Themes
emotions
shame
family dynamics
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
advice
psychological
When to use this quote
- parenting
- therapy
- self‑care
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
psychology
attachment theory
emotional regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you currently respond to strong emotions?
- What steps can you take to create a safe emotional space?
A Different Perspective
Shame can be deeply ingrained, making change difficult.
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