Social Discomfort & Honest Feedback
- Masterclass
- Relationships & Identity
- 45 min
- English
What should you do when a colleague makes an inappropriate remark? Do you brush it off or address it directly? Social discomfort and the challenge of giving honest feedback are things we all face from time to time, both in the workplace and beyond. Many of us shy away from confrontation in order to keep the peace: perhaps out of fear of conflict or of damaging a relationship. Yet, this avoidance often allows issues to fester, leading to unwanted behaviour that persists or even gets worse.
In this masterclass, Roos Vonk, professor of social psychology, will explore the subtle psychological mechanisms that shape our reactions in such moments. You’ll gain insight into how group pressure, hierarchy, fear of rejection, and our natural urge to save face can make us passive bystanders, even when we don’t intend to be. More importantly, you’ll discover how to break this pattern in a way that strengthens relationships rather than strains them.
In this session, you will learn:
- What social discomfort really means, and why we’re inclined to avoid it
- Practical techniques for giving honest feedback without causing harm
- How to foster a culture of openness, trust, and mutual respect
Can’t attend live? No worries! When you register, you’ll receive a link in your inbox to rewatch the session afterwards.
