Psychological Submission: Definition, Causes, Psychological Effects, and Treatment Methods
Psychological submission, often referred to as a state of mental surrender or subjugation, involves the relinquishment of personal control, autonomy, and decision-making to another individual, group, or even societal norms. It is characterized by passivity, dependence, and an overwhelming desire to conform to external influences, often at the cost of one’s own thoughts, desires, and self-concept. While psychological submission may arise in various contexts, from interpersonal relationships to institutional settings, it is essential to understand its root causes, its profound effects on mental health, and the various ways it can be addressed therapeutically.
Defining Psychological Submission
Psychological submission can be understood as a condition where an individual defers to the will or influence of another, feeling either powerless or unwilling to assert their own needs, desires, or thoughts. This state of mental passivity is often driven by fear, dependency, or learned helplessness, where individuals come to believe that they cannot change their circumstances or that asserting themselves will lead to negative consequences.
In many cases, psychological submission can be differentiated from physical submission, as it involves a deeper level of cognitive and emotional surrender. The submissive individual may not just obey out of fear of punishment, but rather out of a genuine internalization of the belief that they are less worthy, competent, or capable than those exerting influence over them. This internalization often leads to a chronic state of low self-esteem, learned helplessness, and an inability to pursue personal goals or assert boundaries.
Causes of Psychological Submission
Several factors contribute to the development of psychological submission, each shaping the individual’s internal world and interpersonal dynamics. These causes are complex and multifaceted, often emerging from a combination of psychological, social, and environmental influences.
1. Early Childhood Experiences
One of the most significant contributors to psychological submission is the nature of early childhood experiences. Children raised in environments where they are consistently belittled, controlled, or overly dependent on authoritative figures may develop submissive tendencies. These experiences can occur in households where parents or caregivers exhibit authoritarian behaviors, dictating every aspect of the child’s life and discouraging independent thought or action. Over time, the child learns that their voice does not matter, and they become accustomed to relying on others for guidance and decision-making.
2. Trauma and Abuse
Psychological submission can also be a result of traumatic experiences, particularly those involving abuse, whether emotional, psychological, or physical. Victims of abuse often develop feelings of helplessness and powerlessness, leading them to submit to the will of the abuser in an attempt to minimize harm or avoid further pain. This dynamic is particularly evident in abusive relationships where the abuser systematically erodes the victim’s self-esteem, instills fear, and manipulates their sense of reality.
3. Cultural and Societal Expectations
Cultural and societal norms can play a substantial role in fostering psychological submission. In many societies, there are rigid gender roles, class structures, or religious expectations that dictate the behavior and mindset of individuals. For example, in some cultures, women may be socialized to adopt submissive roles, deferring to male authority figures in both the private and public spheres. Similarly, certain societal systems may enforce submission in lower socioeconomic groups, instilling a sense of inferiority or resignation to one’s perceived “place” in the social hierarchy.
4. Personality Factors
Certain personality traits, such as high agreeableness, low self-esteem, and high levels of neuroticism, may predispose individuals to psychological submission. People who are naturally conflict-avoidant, who seek harmony at all costs, or who have an intense fear of rejection or disapproval may find themselves more inclined to adopt a submissive stance in relationships. These traits, while not inherently negative, can lead to unhealthy levels of submission when not balanced with assertiveness and self-respect.
5. Learned Helplessness
Learned helplessness, a concept developed by psychologist Martin Seligman, refers to a condition in which individuals who have experienced repeated failures or an inability to escape negative situations come to believe that they have no control over their outcomes. This state of helplessness can lead to psychological submission, as the individual internalizes the belief that they are incapable of changing their circumstances, leading them to passively accept their fate and submit to external control.
Psychological Effects of Submission
The psychological effects of submission can be profound and long-lasting. While some individuals may view submission as a means of achieving peace or avoiding conflict, the underlying consequences for mental health are often damaging.
1. Low Self-Esteem
Chronic submission can significantly erode self-esteem, as the individual comes to believe that their own thoughts, feelings, and desires are less valid than those of others. Over time, this leads to a sense of worthlessness and a lack of confidence in one’s abilities and judgment.
2. Anxiety and Depression
Living in a state of psychological submission often breeds anxiety and depression. The constant suppression of one’s own needs and the fear of upsetting others can lead to chronic stress, worry, and a sense of hopelessness. Depression may arise as the individual feels trapped in a cycle of powerlessness, unable to assert themselves or change their circumstances.
3. Codependency
Psychological submission often leads to codependent relationships, where the submissive individual becomes excessively reliant on another person for emotional, psychological, or physical support. In these relationships, the submissive partner sacrifices their own needs and autonomy to maintain the relationship, often to their detriment.
4. Loss of Identity
One of the most significant effects of psychological submission is the loss of personal identity. As the individual continuously defers to others, they may lose touch with their own values, desires, and sense of self. This can lead to a feeling of emptiness or confusion about one’s purpose or identity outside of the submissive dynamic.
Treatment Methods for Psychological Submission
Addressing psychological submission requires a multi-faceted approach, combining therapeutic intervention with strategies aimed at rebuilding self-esteem, autonomy, and assertiveness. The following are key treatment methods for individuals struggling with psychological submission.
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most effective treatment modalities for addressing psychological submission. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of helplessness and powerlessness. By restructuring these thoughts, individuals can begin to build confidence in their ability to assert themselves and take control of their lives. CBT also helps individuals develop healthier ways of relating to others, promoting assertiveness rather than submission.
2. Assertiveness Training
Assertiveness training is a critical component of treatment for psychological submission. Individuals who struggle with submission often have difficulty expressing their needs, desires, and boundaries. Assertiveness training teaches them how to communicate their thoughts and feelings in a direct and respectful manner, empowering them to advocate for themselves without resorting to passive or aggressive behaviors.
3. Building Self-Esteem
Rebuilding self-esteem is essential for overcoming psychological submission. Therapy can help individuals identify and challenge the core beliefs that contribute to low self-worth, such as the belief that they are inherently inferior or unworthy of respect. Additionally, engaging in activities that promote personal growth, achievement, and self-care can help individuals develop a stronger sense of self-worth.
4. Developing Independence
For those who have become overly reliant on others due to psychological submission, fostering independence is a crucial aspect of treatment. This involves encouraging the individual to take small steps towards autonomy, such as making independent decisions, setting personal goals, and engaging in activities that promote self-sufficiency.
5. Addressing Trauma and Past Experiences
For individuals whose psychological submission stems from trauma or abuse, addressing these past experiences in therapy is vital. Trauma-focused therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or trauma-informed CBT, can help individuals process their past traumas and break free from the patterns of submission that were established as a coping mechanism.
6. Group Therapy and Support Networks
Group therapy can provide a supportive environment for individuals struggling with psychological submission. In a group setting, individuals can learn from others’ experiences, practice assertiveness, and receive feedback on their interactions. Additionally, developing a strong support network outside of therapy can help reinforce the individual’s progress by surrounding them with people who encourage their autonomy and self-expression.
Conclusion
Psychological submission is a complex and pervasive issue that affects individuals across various contexts, from personal relationships to broader societal structures. Its causes are multifaceted, rooted in early childhood experiences, trauma, personality factors, and societal expectations. The psychological effects of submission can be devastating, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and a loss of identity. However, with appropriate therapeutic intervention, individuals can break free from the cycle of submission, rebuild their self-esteem, and develop the assertiveness and autonomy necessary to lead fulfilling and empowered lives.