Toxic Positivity

Filtering perspective through toxic positivity involves dismissing negative emotions and experiences with an overly optimistic outlook, often to the point of denial. This approach can invalidate genuine feelings and hinder healthy coping mechanisms. Here are examples that illustrate filtering perspective through toxic positivity:

1. Ignoring Personal Pain: Instead of acknowledging and dealing with personal grief or disappointment, someone might say, "Just stay positive! Other people have it much worse."

2. Overgeneralizing Happiness: Responding to every problem with statements like, "Happiness is a choice," without recognizing the complexity of human emotions and situations.

3. Shaming Sadness: Telling someone or oneself, "You shouldn’t feel sad. Just be grateful for what you have," thereby invalidating feelings of sadness or loss.

4. Dismissing Concerns: In a difficult situation, saying, "Everything happens for a reason," or "Look on the bright side," without addressing the real concerns or emotions involved.

5. Forcing a Positive Outlook: Encouraging someone or oneself to always "Keep smiling, no matter what," even when going through genuinely tough times, without allowing space for authentic expression of feelings.

6. Avoidance of Difficult Conversations: Saying, "Let’s not talk about negative things," when someone tries to share their struggles, effectively shutting down opportunities for meaningful support and connection.

7. Minimizing Feelings: Reacting to someone's expression of distress with, "Just try to be happy," suggesting that their feelings are minor and easily overcome.

8. One-dimensional Responses to Grief or Trauma: Offering platitudes like, "They’re in a better place now," to someone mourning a loss, without acknowledging the depth of their grief.

Toxic positivity overlooks the importance of processing a full range of emotions and can lead to suppressed feelings and lack of genuine healing. It’s crucial to strike a balance, allowing for positivity while also giving space to feel, express, and work through the entire spectrum of human emotions.