Eps 86 - Part 5: The Fawn Response: Why People-Pleasing and Avoiding Conflict Feels Safer Than Being True to Yourself

In this final episode of our 5-part series on understanding survival responses, Dr. Ashleigh Moreland and David Masterton explore the Fawn Response, a learned behaviour often rooted in people-pleasing and conflict avoidance. Unlike the reflexive fight, flight, or freeze responses, fawning is a deeply ingrained behaviour many of us adopt to feel safe and accepted, even when it means sacrificing our true selves. Join us as we uncover why we say “yes” when we mean “no,” apologise unnecessarily, and prioritise others' approval over our own needs. Dr. Ashleigh shares how this response can stem from our earliest experiences, where safety and acceptance felt conditional. We’ll dive into the ways fawning impacts our relationships, boundaries, and self-worth—and offer tools for reclaiming personal power by understanding where and why we fawn. If you find yourself abandoning your own voice or struggling to set boundaries, this episode will shed light on the path to healing and self-empowerment. Plus, discover actionable steps to reconnect with who you are beyond the need for approval. Ready to step out of people-pleasing and back into authenticity? Tune in and start the journey towards embracing your true self. YouTube: https://youtu.be/DLsmcAJAnCw Rise and Thrive: https://riseandthrive.re-mind.institute/ David’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/accidental_ascension Website: www.re-mind.institute Facebook: Re-MIND Institute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remind.institute https://www.pinterest.com.au/ReMINDInstitute/?fbclid=IwAR0y56gD4nbAop_524-LtAAO2y1FDhIQv2dK9TTl0Zbo08TVNIdguSTjhYQ [Disclaimer: The Re-Mind Podcast provides general information and discussion about various mental health and well-being topics. The content in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, we encourage seeking support from qualified professionals.]