Is seeking approval addictive?

Seeking approval can indeed be addictive. Many experts discuss how this behavior is often a response to deeper emotional or psychological needs.

Paul Stanley, co-founder of KISS, explains that the desire for approval from large audiences stems from deep insecurities and a lack of self-confidence. He notes that fame does not address these underlying issues and suggests seeking professional help to find true contentment 1.

Dhru Purohit, a podcast host and health expert, highlights that the state of seeking is driven by desperation to fill a void. He refers to Gabor Maté, an addiction expert, who posits that addictions, including the need for approval, are ways to cope with underlying pain 2. Mate further explains that these behaviors often compensate for unmet emotional needs from childhood, such as the need for validation and companionship 3 4.

Marla Keller, a relationship coach, discusses how perfectionism and the quest for approval can be considered insidious addictions, driven by underlying shame and insecurities. She notes that societal validation can easily make approval-seeking addictive because of the positive reinforcement it gets 5.

Overall, approval-seeking behavior can be addictive because it often masks deeper psychological issues and provides temporary comfort while ultimately failing to address the root causes of the insecurity or need.