As a marriage and family therapist grounded in Bowen Family Systems Theory, I've seen countless examples of how people-pleasing behaviors can lead to anxiety in relationships. Let's consider the case of Jennifer and Michael. Jennifer continually conformed to Michael's desires, always wanting to avoid conflict. Over time, this pattern leads to Jennifer feeling unheard, unappreciated, and anxious about expressing her needs and wishes.

People-pleasing is a helpful strategy on the surface. After all, who doesn't want to make others happy? However, research shows that it can have unintended consequences, particularly when it becomes a habitual way of interacting in relationships. A study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that people high in sociotropy, or excessive concern with pleasing others, often experience........

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