[Anonymous]

I don't like to appear weak or vulnerable at all, been this way for as long as I can remember. Recently feels like this pride is stopping me from being in relationships (never move past a casual basis where more emotional intimacy would be required) or even being honest with my friends. People call me insensitive and cold but it's not that I don't give a **** just that I see showing it as a sign of weakness.

How can I stop this?!

[TheAwkwardBalloon]

(Original post by Anonymous)
I don't like to appear weak or vulnerable at all, been this way for as long as I can remember. Recently feels like this pride is stopping me from being in relationships (never move past a casual basis where more emotional intimacy would be required) or even being honest with my friends. People call me insensitive and cold but it's not that I don't give a **** just that I see showing it as a sign of weakness.

How can I stop this?!

I feel like you're me lol that doesn't make sense but whatever, i have this problem too people sometimes say stuff like i have stone heart and i don't at all but to me emotion is a sign of weakness and i avoid it completely. I don't even do it consciously its just something i do. I laugh and have fun but when i get its serious I'm like woahhh back up a minute and run in the other direction

[Lucia.]

You don't have to be the most expressive person if that isn't you i.e. you don't have to turn metro. But clearly you're experiencing problems bonding. It takes some courage to be vulnerable. I suppose it's harder for men because their friendships might be less intense than friendships between women. Why do you see showing emotion as a sign of weakness? Do you feel a lack of control over your external environment? Are you worried about the perceptions of others?

[Dark Horse]

I am like this also.

Letting someone in feels like you're giving them all sorts of power and ammunition to use against you.

[Double Agent]

Being open about how you feel is being strong. Might sound odd, but perhaps try emailing or calling the samaritans. Contact details are on their website, its a wonderful service and a good way of opening up without being judged or anyone knowing about it. Might help you understand what is being kept in your chest.

[Foo.mp3]

That's not pride it's a rudimentary (and perfectly understandable) survival mechanism.. just explain the basis for this approach to partners and slowly ease out of it as trust is built

[Anonymous]

[QUOTE=Lucia.;37723920]Why do you see showing emotion as a sign of weakness?/QUOTE]

I just don't like the idea of someone knowing me too well if things were to go sour. You're right it's not too much of a problem with friends, guys don't tend to ask for much but in the context of a relationship I just don't feel comfortable.