need for approval
Wanting others' endorsement
The need for approval is a desire for validation or acceptance from others, often driving behavior aimed at pleasing people or avoiding criticism.
Everyone has some need for approval, but the phrase typically implies an excessive or unhealthy degree: Her need for approval kept her from ever disagreeing with anyone.
Psychology treats it as a pattern that can undermine authenticity and self-worth.
- validationConfirming truth or accuracy
- acceptanceConsent to receive
- pat on the backGesture showing approval
- praiseExpression of approval
- gold starSmall achievement marker
recognition · people-pleasing · insecurity · low self-esteem · rejection · seeking · craving · constant reassurance · reassurance · conformity · belonging · self-worth · inner critic · fear of rejection · attention · compliments · fishing for compliments · judgment
- insecuritiesinsecurity, self-doubt, low self-esteem, inadequacy, inferiority
- sycophancyfawning, toadying, groveling, kowtowing, brown-nosing
- passionsardor, fervor, zeal, enthusiasm, intensity
- drivesdrive, hard drive, flash drive, USB drive, CD drive
need for approvalself-assurance
Confidence in one's abilities
self-confidence · self-validation · self-reliance · self-acceptance · self-esteem
need for approvalnonconformity
Rejection of prevailing norms
thick skin · defiance · rebelliousness · contrarianism · misanthropy
need for approvalgroundedness
State of being anchored
emotional security · self-esteem · self-respect · inner peace · equanimity
need, needs, needed, needing, needy, needful, neediness, approval, approve