by Harper West | Jul 21, 2016 | Mindfulness, Self-Acceptance, Uncategorized
It may seem counterintuitive, but truly accepting emotional experiences is actually the best way to manage them, as this blog notes. I’d add some neurobiological information: One reason that acceptance works biologically is that it reduces the threat or fear...
by Harper West | Mar 9, 2014 | Emotions
In my last blog I wrote about shame being the true underlying emotion behind most angry outbursts and behaviors. People feel embarrassed so they lash out with anger, rather than admitting or expressing their real emotion of shame. This connection is very clear in...
by Harper West | Jul 28, 2013 | Psychology, Uncategorized
“Fight-or-flight” is a concept I discuss in depth in “Pack Leader Psychology,” because I believe this primal fear response is key to understanding human behavior. This natural survival instinct is also a powerful driver of human emotions and interactions,...
by Harper West | Feb 25, 2013 | DSM, Uncategorized
As the American Psychiatric Association (APA) prepares to publish the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in May 2013, there has been considerable debate about the changes in this document. Client advocacy groups and...
