What is the difference between repressing and withholding?

Definitions

repressing

- Describing the act of suppressing or controlling one's emotions, thoughts, or desires.

- Referring to the process of keeping something hidden or secret, often due to shame or fear of consequences.

- Talking about the act of preventing or inhibiting the expression of something, such as a memory or feeling.

withholding

- Referring to the act of holding back or not revealing information, resources, or support.

- Describing the process of refraining from giving or sharing something that is expected or deserved.

- Talking about the act of keeping something back or not providing it, often as a form of punishment or control.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both involve the act of holding back or preventing something from being expressed or shared.
• 2. Both can be used as a form of control or manipulation.
• 3. Both can have negative consequences on relationships and mental health.

What is the difference?

• 1. Focus: Repressing is focused on internal emotions or desires, while withholding is focused on external actions or resources.
• 2. Intent: Repressing is often done to avoid conflict or negative consequences, while withholding is often done as a form of punishment or control.
• 3. Nature: Repressing is more passive and internal, while withholding is more active and external.
• 4. Scope: Repressing can refer to a wide range of emotions, thoughts, and desires, while withholding is typically used in the context of information, resources, or support.
• 5. Connotation: Repressing can have a negative connotation of suppressing or denying one's true self, while withholding can have a negative connotation of being selfish or manipulative.

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Remember this!

Repressing and withholding are both synonyms that describe the act of holding back or preventing something from being expressed or shared. However, the difference between them lies in their focus, intent, nature, scope, and connotation. Repressing is more internal and passive, often done to avoid conflict or negative consequences, while withholding is more external and active, often done as a form of punishment or control.