1. Identify something that you did that was highly unusual or bizarre. You do not need to share what you focus on, unless you choose to do so. Your task is to identify the underlying reasons why you did what you did in terms of the following approaches: (1) Maslow’s hierarchy of needs framework, (2) control theory, (3) intuition theory, and (4) self-talk.
2. In my frequent struggle with running away and seeking isolation, behaviors I dislike and find triggering, psychological frameworks provide valuable insights into the motivations underlying this pattern. The urge to distance myself appears rooted in a profound yearning for belonging and esteem when examined through Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. By withdrawing from challenging environments, I unconsciously attempt to fulfill these fundamental human needs that were notably absent in my childhood, marked by familial addiction and neglect.
From the perspective of Control Theory, my inclination toward running away and isolation becomes a strategy to assert control over circumstances perceived as chaotic or emotionally overwhelming. Creating distance serves as a means to gain a semblance of control over my environment and emotions, a response shaped by the tumultuous experiences of juvenile detention and familial neglect.
Intuition Theory introduces another dimension, suggesting that I may instinctively follow my inner guidance. Driven by a desire for self-expression and creativity, choosing isolation might be an intuitive response to an internal need for solitude to process emotions and regain mental balance after enduring adverse circumstances.
Reflecting on Self-Talk reveals the role of internal dialogue in reinforcing this isolating pattern. Consciously or subconsciously, I convince myself that running away and isolating is a form of self-protection. The internal narrative likely emphasizes the necessity of distance as a means to avoid emotional harm, contributing to a reinforced pattern of isolation as a coping mechanism.
In essence, these psychological frameworks collectively offer a nuanced understanding of my responses to a challenging upbringing and emotional struggles, shedding light on the intricate motivations behind my behaviors of running away and seeking isolation.