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Some people worry about every trifle and always expect trouble.
And they always feel that they won’t cope with difficulties, and also that they are not good enough – and this is the reason for most of their problems. Most likely, such people are strongly pronounced neurotics. We are talking about them in the next issue of the guide to psychology.
What is neuroticism?
In contemporary understanding, neuroticism refers to a proclivity towards emotional instability, negative thoughts, and experiences, and was formerly regarded as a mental disorder. The word “neurosis,” which gave rise to the term “neuroticism,” was utilized by medical practitioners as early as the start of the 18th century, and was also studied by Sigmund Freud. However, in the mid-1980s, the American Psychiatric Association excluded neuroticism from its diagnostic guidelines, and it ceased to be officially classified as an illness.
Today, the most severe and disruptive indications of neuroticism are recognized as symptoms of anxiety disorder, but as a whole, it is considered a normal, albeit occasionally unpleasant, fundamental characteristic of the human personality. In essence, everyone possesses at least some degree of neuroticism.
Individuals who exhibit mild neuroticism are able to manage their emotions adeptly and possess resilience towards stress. Conversely, those with a significant level of neuroticism:
- Frequently experience anxiety, even over minor issues.
- Are prone to distraction.
- Exhibit fluctuating moods.
- Lack self-assurance.
- Tend to become easily upset and experience intense stress, which takes them a prolonged period to overcome.
- May display irritability.
The subsequent statements are indicative of individuals with a marked degree of neuroticism:
- “This is a catastrophe! What can we possibly do now?”
- “We’ll never be able to handle this situation.”
- “I’ve had a headache for two days straight. I probably have a fatal illness.”
- “I’m definitely not cut out for this job. I never succeed at anything.”
- “I’m incapable of accomplishing anything.”
- “I’m not going anywhere. The mere thought of conversing with these individuals makes me feel sick.”
- “I simply can’t deal with the paperwork needed for benefits. It’s so stressful to handle these documents, and it’s easy to make a mistake.”
- “Something must be wrong with me.”
What causes the emergence of neuroticism?
Scientists don’t know for sure why neuroticism manifests more intensely in some people than others. But, presumably, the following factors play a significant role in this.
Features of Brain function
Spanish researchers have found that people with high levels of neuroticism had lower levels of oxygen in the prefrontal cortex of the brain while viewing unpleasant images, compared to people with low levels of neuroticism. This means that this part of the brain was working less intensively during stress in neurotics. Perhaps this made their emotions less controllable: the prefrontal cortex is responsible, among other things, for rational analysis of information, which contributes to reducing anxiety. However, these conclusions still need clarification.
Psychological trauma experienced in childhood or early youth
This increases the tendency to develop neuroticism. At the same time, apparently, traumatic events in later life do not have such an effect.
Genetics
Several studies have shown that a tendency to develop neurotic traits can be inherited along with other genetic characteristics.
What makes neuroticism a dangerous trait?
To be objective, it must be acknowledged that neuroticism has its advantages; otherwise, it would not have become a well-established personality trait through evolution. For instance, by keeping individuals aware of imminent dangers, neuroticism makes them more careful. Additionally, a high degree of neuroticism is linked to academic success.
However, excessive neuroticism hampers an individual’s ability to regulate negative emotions, resulting in prolonged periods of stress and anxiety. This increases the likelihood of developing anxiety disorders and clinical depression, rendering them more vulnerable.
A high level of neuroticism has a negative impact on interpersonal relationships. Some neurotics tend to gripe incessantly, express their dissatisfaction, exaggerate their own and others’ shortcomings, and criticize those around them, making them unpleasant company.
Individuals with neuroticism tend to question their self-worth and whether they are capable of being loved. Consequently, they may ask their partner an excessive amount of bothersome questions, such as “Do you still love me?”
As neurotics are highly sensitive to any form of unpleasantness, they are more prone to conflict and aggression, which can affect their credibility among others.
In addition, sometimes neurotic traits cause a person to constantly feel guilty even for things they did not do and become fixated on it. A person may frequently apologize to others for no reason, which can simply irritate many. And the neurotic person themselves – is forced to experience even greater stress.
Neurotic parents may excessively care for their children and watch over them. As a result, they often grow up dependent on others, excessively anxious, unable to cope with difficulties, and afraid of any risks.
How should one deal with neuroticism?
Although neuroticism is considered an inherent personality trait, psychologists believe that it can be managed through learning. One can begin by mastering stress management techniques, which are the primary adversary of all neurotics. Even the simplest methods can be effective, provided they are used consistently, resulting in a positive outcome over time.
Outlined below are some stress management practices that may be useful.
Gratitude journal
To enhance stress resilience, begin by keeping a daily journal, in which you document at least a few things that have occurred in your life recently, for which you are genuinely thankful. This straightforward practice will gradually alter your outlook towards life, causing you to focus not only on difficulties and negativity, but also on the positive events that happen to you. As a result, you will develop an improved ability to manage stress.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the capacity to concentrate on the present moment, disregarding any thoughts about the past or future. It involves paying attention to what you hear, feel, and see. Practicing mindfulness has been shown to promote calmness, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve the functioning of the prefrontal cortex in the long run.
Meditation is the most effective way to cultivate this ability, but if you are not prepared for it, you can start by practicing mindfulness in your daily routine. For example, try to concentrate on each sensation and action while washing dishes or brushing your teeth. This will assist you in developing this skill.
Development of problem-solving skills
When faced with challenges, avoid panicking reflexively. Instead, attempt to comprehend what these challenges pose as a real threat to you and why they arose. Following that, devise a plan to overcome them. Recognizing that you possess some control and are not helpless will enable you to regulate your emotions to some extent.
Individuals with significant neuroticism may benefit from stress management practices. Several options are available, such as engaging in sports or yoga, taking long walks, or pursuing any form of creativity.
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