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Some people instinctively downplay compliments by saying things like “It was nothing” or immediately pointing out a flaw. Research suggests people sometimes have difficulty accepting positive feedback when it conflicts with how they currently see themselves. Instead of simply enjoying the compliment, the brain compares it with existing beliefs about the self. This can make genuine praise feel unexpectedly uncomfortable.
The person giving the compliment may see something the receiver has difficulty recognizing. Sometimes, believing something good about ourselves is harder than hearing it.
© Journal of Experimental Social Psychology