What do people fear? Some people are afraid of success, others failure, and others change, and some fear fear itself. “Lack of control” is a key component of this matrix of fear. Fear that stems from lack of control is one of most prevalent motivations that causes people to learn defensive coping strategies that are subconsciously designed to keep them safe.
More often these learned coping methods are overwhelming and destructive and prevent people from living healthy productive lives. “Pointing out to people how they are feeling a lack of control and how those feelings can, in fact, be illusory, can help them if they are dealing with an anxiety disorder.” Think of terrors as an opponent “with knowable patterns and actions, rather than something that happens … without cause or reason.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are common fears people experience?
- Common fears include fear of success, fear of failure, fear of change, and fear of fear itself. These fears are often linked to a perceived lack of control, which can lead to the development of defensive coping strategies.
- How does lack of control contribute to fear?
- Lack of control is a significant factor in the matrix of fear. It drives individuals to adopt subconscious defensive coping mechanisms aimed at keeping them safe but can often lead to overwhelming and destructive behaviors.
- Can understanding fear help manage anxiety disorders?
- Yes, recognizing how feelings of lack of control might be illusory can be beneficial. Viewing fears as patterns or knowable oppositions rather than random, causeless occurrences can aid in managing anxiety disorders.