Recede, Nicole

BS Psychology 3-3

Breaking Free from Intropunitive Behaviors: Embracing Self-Compassion

What is Intropunitive Behavior?

Punishment of oneself: tending to turn anger, blame, or hostility internally, against the self, in
response to frustration. Common intropunitive patterns, such as self-blame, negative self-talk,
and self-sabotage. Negative consequences of engaging in intropunitive behaviors, including
mental health issues, low self-esteem, and hindered personal growth.

Where is this coming from?

Societal and cultural factors contribute to the development of intropunitive tendencies.
Childhood experiences, societal expectations, and media influence shape our self-perception.
Additionally, the role of perfectionism and the fear of failure in fostering intropunitive behaviors.

The Power of Self-Compassion

We give ourselves support and encouragement rather than being cold and judgmental when
challenges and difficulty arise in our lives. Three core components of self-compassion:
self-kindness (loving), common humanity (connected), and mindfulness (presence).

How can we have Self-Compassion?

The key to developing compassion in your life is to make it a daily practice. Self-reflection,
identifying the intropunitive behaviors. The practice of self-kindness, embracing imperfection,
and challenging negative self-talk.

Breaking Free and Embracing Growth

Individuals who are more self-compassionate tend to have greater happiness, life satisfaction
and motivation, better relationships and physical health, and less anxiety and depression.

References
(n.d.). Self-Compassion.org. Retrieved June 16, 2023, from https://self-compassion.org/
Babauta, L. (n.d.). A Guide to Cultivating Compassion in Your Life, With 7 Practices - zen habits
zen habits. Zen Habits. Retrieved June 16, 2023, from
https://zenhabits.net/a-guide-to-cultivating-compassion-in-your-life-with-7-practices/
Moore, C., & Nash, J. (2019, June 2). How to Practice Self-Compassion: 8 Techniques and Tips.
Positive Psychology. Retrieved June 16, 2023, from
https://positivepsychology.com/how-to-practice-self-compassion/
Neff, K., & Germer, C. (2019, January 29). The Transformative Effects of Mindful
Self-Compassion. Mindful.org. Retrieved June 16, 2023, from
https://www.mindful.org/the-transformative-effects-of-mindful-self-compassion/
Polonia, M. (2021, May 10). 3 Elements of Self-Compassion — Dr. Madeline Polonia. Dr.
Madeline Polonia. Retrieved June 16, 2023, from
https://www.madelinepolonia.com/blog/3-elements-of-self-compassion
Psychology. (n.d.). APA Dictionary of Psychology. Retrieved June 16, 2023, from
https://dictionary.apa.org/intropunitive