Understanding Fawning: The Survival Response Behind People-Pleasing

You have heard of fight, flight or freeze response. What if I told you there is a fourth one? Well there is, fawning

Discover how what we often labeled as people-pleasing might actually be a complex trauma response called fawning. In this Call Me Courage Midweek Inspiration & Motivation episode, Kena explores the emotional roots, signs, and healing journey associated with this behavior, offering insights for anyone looking to reconnect with their true self.

• The difference between people-pleasing and fawning, and how it’s rooted in survival mechanisms
• The concept of fawning as a trauma response linked to complex PTSD, explained through Pete Walker’s insights
• How childhood experiences shape adult behaviors of codependency and constant caretaking
• Recognizing the signs of fawning in relationships: hyper-vigilance, emotional monitoring, loss of self-awareness
• The importance of understanding that fawning is not a flaw but a coping strategy
• Steps toward healing: setting boundaries, self-awareness, seeking support, and reconnecting with personal needs
• The role of therapy, support groups, and spiritual communities in the healing process
• How awareness can empower you to live more authentically and courageously

CHAPTERS

• (0:02) - Introduction: Are you a people pleaser? Fawning as a survival response
• (0:30) - Understanding fawning and complex PTSD
• (2:10) - The distinction between character flaws and trauma responses
• (3:36) - Reframing codependency: Trauma, not character defect
• (4:27) - Childhood conditions that lead to fawning behaviors
• (5:24) - The cycle of sacrifice and the illusion of love
• (5:54) - The hyper-vigilance of fawners and loss of safety
• (6:24) - Reflection on childhood needs and adult resilience
• (6:55) - The liberation of understanding your survival mechanisms
• (7:25) - The impact of unresolved pain on loved ones
• (7:53) - Steps toward healing: boundaries, self-worth, and support
• (8:04) - Practical tips for reclaiming your true self
• (8:53) - Resources for healing: therapy, community, spiritual practices

RESOURCES - Below are Amazon Canada Links, books can be found on other Amazon platforms in other countries.

• Fawning by Ingrid Clayton https://a.co/d/07X8D6U0
• CoDependent No More by Melody Beattie https://a.co/d/01nWrvjR
• Complex PTSD from Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker https://a.co/d/062UWsoP

Connect with Kena:

https://www.callmecouragepodcast.com/contact-8

The opinions shared on this podcast are solely those of the hosts, Kena. If you are in crisis or feel you may be in danger, please seek professional help. Additional support resources can be found on the Call Me Courage blog page. https://www.callmecouragepodcast.com/blog

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