validationseeking

Validationseeking is the tendency to seek confirmation, approval, or praise from others in order to validate one's self-worth or social standing. The behavior emerges from social motivation and is shaped by factors such as attachment history, self-esteem, and cultural norms. It can play a functional role in gaining acceptance, but when excessive it may be maladaptive.

Common manifestations include repeatedly seeking feedback, tailoring one’s behavior to please others, posting for likes, relying on others’ opinions to judge oneself, and avoiding actions that risk criticism or disapproval.

Impact can include increased anxiety and mood symptoms when external validation is uncertain, reduced autonomy in decision-making, and relationship strain due to perceived neediness. In some settings, validation seeking may promote bonding or cooperative behavior.

Assessment and treatment concepts treat validationseeking as a trait tendency or a situational pattern. It is typically measured with self-report scales; interventions focus on building intrinsic self-worth, cognitive restructuring, reducing dependence on external feedback, and practicing mindfulness and assertive communication.

Related terms include social validation, contingent self-worth, fear of negative evaluation, and interpersonal sensitivity.