When dealing with anxiety, speaking to oneself in the third person can be a powerful tool, as research by psychologist Ethan Kross has shown. According to studies referenced on Psychologie-lernen.de, this technique, known as "distanced self-talk," involves addressing oneself by name or using non-first-person pronouns like "he," "she," or "they."
Ethan Kross’s research highlights that distanced self-talk helps individuals gain psychological distance from their emotions. This separation allows them to manage their feelings more effectively and reduces emotional reactivity. By doing so, people can approach their problems more objectively, as if they were advising a friend, which can lead to better coping strategies and decision-making.
For example, if someone named Alex is feeling anxious about an upcoming presentation, instead of saying, "I am so nervous," Alex could say, "Alex, you’ve prepared well for this. You can handle it." This subtle shift in perspective can diminish the intensity of the anxiety and foster a more supportive internal dialogue.
Thus, incorporating third-person self-talk can be a simple yet effective strategy to manage anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and control by leveraging the psychological distance it creates.
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