There are different ways of reacting to emotions. Many people tend to minimize feelings, their own as well as others’. This is especially noticeable with “negative” emotions such as anger or sadness.

This question was inspired by a TV show I watched today. A teen had an important medical procedure ahead of her. She tried to talk about this to her mum, but the conversation didn’t go well. As soon as the teen mentioned she was scared, her mother intervened with soothing phrases. “There’s no need to be scared. Just think positive thoughts.”

What’s your opinion on this sort of response? What is your own way of reacting to feelings? Are you trying to improve it?