What is the best way to interact with insecure people?

Question

Should you joke around to try to make them lighten up or should you be very cautious so they don't take things personally?

Answer 1

Most insecure people are constantly *fishing* for compliments by saying stupid things like "Oh man, I look like crap today." or "Ew, these jeans make me look fat."

These negative comments about themselves is supposed to make you say a positive comment about them and make them feel better. They are constantly needing someone to make them feel better and uplift them.

You really need to NOT give into their crazy, clingy, needs! Do not give them what they want. Do not compliment them everytime they say something bad about themselves.

Some people just need to wallow in their own depression and self pity(or self loathing), and while they are wallowing, they are losing friends.

These are not nice people to be around, and they are not good for you. Negative energy rubs off and then you'll start acting negatively also.

Be a good person, and keep away from them.

Answer 2

I am an insecure person (at least most of the time). I can tell you from my own experience that I am very very sensitive. i am sensitive to words and how they are used. I am sensitive to sounds and sights as well. I have a kind of tape player in my head that plays the things that people say to me over and over and over - analyzing every nuance of what they meant. I crave security and kindness and gentle behaviors from people. I need to know that the way people feel toward me will not change overnight. I need to be told frequently that I am loved and wanted. I never get enough of that to let the issue go. I need to be told that I am pretty and smart. I usually don't truly believe that I am worthy of praise.

I am not proud of this by any means. It hurts and is hard to live with. I do have some days where I feel good and strong, but some days I am weak and abusive psychologically to myself.

If you truly want to know how to interact with someone who is insecure remember those things. Remember that what you tell them they will consider the truth. We are our own worst critics, so if you give us something negative, we will dwell on it for a very long time. Just be gentle and forgiving. Be mindful of what you say and what your body language is.

Answer 3

Just respect them. As long as you don't make them feel little they will open up to you. Joking around or being cautious will just make them feel more insecure.

Answer 4

Speak carefully, and try not to make any jokes that are based on them. People often take this to heart if they are already insecure about themselves. Make eye contact. Try to be in a one on one or small group situation.

Answer 5

The balance between the two is best, I suppose... Keep things light but don't overdo the caution. In a word, behave in a 'normal' way and at the same time show them you're interested in what they have to say.

Answer 6

Be very open and upfront with them. They will feel less insecure when they are validated by knowing where they stand. Treating them differently is rather a dishonest move.

Answer 7

I think talking to them, joking around with them but not over doing the attention on them might be an idea.

Answer 8

well, dont let them feel that u know they are insecure...act normal...dont be too cautious or they will feel that u think they're insecure...don't joke too much or they'll feel more insecure...just be urself and make them comfortable because of what u r.

Answer 9

be alert! don't simply joke with them.their actions are always funny & unthinkable.It's better avoid to interact with them.keep ur distance from them.watch out!

Answer 10

Just be yourself... it's their own fault if they are too insecure to handle you and it saves you the trouble of walking on eggshells for somebody.