We are always on the lookout for content to share with our readers and we thought this video recently emailed to the ISST Listserv was worth posting about.
Anne Hilde Vassbø Hagen published two Alfred & Shadow clips on her YouTube channel. Our post today focuses on “Alfred & Shadow – A Short Story about Self-Criticism”.
From a schema therapy perspective, the clip highlights aspects of self-punishment that could be linked to the Punitive Parent Mode. The Punitive Parent Mode can make us feel ashamed of who we are and make us feel lonely and down. The Punitive Parent Mode criticises, pushes down, limits, and damages oneself rather than being helpful. In schema therapy we deal with the Punitive Parent Mode by sending it away.
Self-punishment can also be linked to a coping style. We view coping styles as normal attempts to survive in a difficult environment. Of course, at the same time we would deal with the underlying Punitive Parent Mode by sending it away. Self-punishment has various functions including making amends when we have done something wrong, and reparation in order to make oneself a ‘better person’.
We really like the videos and feel they could be very helpful for individuals learning to understand schema therapy concepts. The powerful message at the end of the video conveys that showing your vulnerability gives you strength.
The Secure Nest Team
