Q
Why do people engage in self-sabotage?
A
Expert Answer
Self-sabotage protects against feared outcomes: if I fail because I didn't try, it's less threatening to self-esteem than trying my best and still failing. It also maintains comfort zones and can serve as identity protection ('I'm not really a failure, I just didn't try'). Therapy helps address underlying fears.
Key Insight
Self-sabotage protects against feared outcomes: if I fail because I didn't try, it's less threatening to self-esteem than trying my best and still failing.
Topics