I have a knack for avoiding my bank balance. There are times I’ll let it slide for weeks—sometimes even months—procrastinating while convincing myself that I’ll check in a few days. The longer I wait, the more anxious I become. When I finally muster the courage to log in and see my dwindling funds—or worse, discover I’m in the red—I can’t help but feel a little queasy. Ignorance feels so much easier, doesn’t it?
We’ve all been there: dodging something we suspect might deliver bad news. Maybe you’ve sidestepped a trip to the doctor about some nagging symptoms because you fear they indicate something serious. Or perhaps you’ve been avoiding tough conversations with your partner, hoping their silence means everything is fine. And like me, you might think that if you delay stepping on the scale long enough after the holidays, those extra pounds will just vanish into thin air.
The Psychology Behind Information Avoidance
This tendency to avoid bad news is backed by a wealth of research, commonly referred to as information avoidance. Studies reveal that people often shun all sorts of information, even when ignorance could lead to worse outcomes. For instance, many choose not to learn their risk of contracting a specific disease, even though that knowledge could lead to early intervention. When faced with a decision, we frequently gravitate towards information that affirms our choices, steering clear of anything that might challenge our beliefs. A comprehensive review on “selective exposure” found that individuals are nearly twice as likely to seek out information that aligns with their existing views.
James Carter, a psychology professor at the University of California, identifies three primary reasons we might shy away from unwelcome information:
- Fear of Changing Beliefs: If new information contradicts what we hold dear—especially beliefs central to our identity—it can feel unsettling. It’s much simpler to cling to what we know than to confront the discomfort of being wrong.
- Avoidance of Action: Learning that your toothache necessitates a root canal is daunting, not to mention costly and painful. Staying in a state of uncertainty about your dental health seems far less burdensome.
- Emotional Distress: Sometimes, it’s just about wanting to dodge any emotional upheaval. Stepping on the scale and discovering you’ve gained weight won’t exactly be a mood booster.
The Upside of Knowing
While it’s understandable to shy away from distressing information, focusing solely on the short-term can be detrimental. Ignoring a serious toothache could lead to more pain and complications down the road. Sure, finding out you need a root canal might be uncomfortable, but it also means you can take action to resolve the issue.
Similarly, avoiding the scale doesn’t change the reality of your weight; the truth is still there, waiting for you. Typically, aligning your beliefs with reality puts you in a better position to effect change—whether that’s losing those extra pounds or seeking necessary medical treatment.
Of course, there are situations where ignorance might be bliss. If there’s nothing you can do about a situation, knowing the truth may only add to your distress. For example, I’d rather not know if an old flame cheated on me; it’s irrelevant now and likely to stir up unnecessary feelings.
Overcoming Avoidance
Saying it’s best to know the truth is one thing, but putting it into practice can be a different story. How do you get yourself to check that bank balance or make that doctor’s appointment? Professor Carter and his team have conducted studies to address this question. One study showed that participants were more inclined to learn about their disease risk after engaging in “contemplation” exercises, where they considered the long-term implications of staying uninformed. This shift in mindset helps move the focus from the immediate fear of finding out to the potential benefits of knowing, like reducing health risks.
The next time you find yourself avoiding your financial situation or postponing a visit to the doctor, take a moment to reflect. Are you genuinely better off remaining in the dark? Or could this avoidance lead to more significant issues later on?
I’ve noticed that creating a pros and cons table can be a game-changer. For instance, avoiding my bank balance might shield me from distress for now, but it certainly won’t help me in the long run. Knowing where I stand financially allows me to make informed decisions, and who knows? It might not be as bad as I imagine!
While facing uncomfortable truths can be tough, they also empower us to tackle our challenges head-on. As Aldous Huxley wisely said, “Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored.”
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Summary
In summary, while avoiding distressing information may seem appealing in the short term, it often leads to greater problems down the line. Understanding the psychology behind this tendency can help us confront our fears and make informed decisions, whether regarding finances, health, or personal relationships. Embracing truth can empower us to take action and improve our situations.