Consideration
Also known as regard, thoughtfulness
The need to have others take your needs, feelings, and circumstances into account. A sense that people think about how their actions affect you.
When met or unmet
When met
- Others thinking about your needs
- Being taken into account
- Thoughtful treatment
When unmet
- Overlooked and ignored
- Others acting without thinking of you
- Feeling invisible
Common expressions
Did you even think about me? A little consideration would be nice They never think of others
Strategies
- Expressing your needs clearly so they can be considered
- Asking others to take specific things into account
- Modelling consideration in how you treat others
- Setting boundaries when consistently inconsiderate treatment occurs
Recognition questions
- → Do the people around me consider how their actions affect me?
- → Am I being thoughtlessly impacted by others?
- → Do I feel taken into account?
Somatic markers
When met
- A sense of being held in mind
- Relaxation from feeling considered
- Warmth at being thought of
When unmet
- Feeling invisible or disregarded
- Hurt at thoughtless treatment
- Frustration at being overlooked
Shadow side
- Expecting others to anticipate needs without communication
- Excessive sensitivity to any perceived slight
- Demanding consideration without offering it
Cultural considerations
Consideration norms vary: explicit asking vs anticipating needs, individual vs collective consideration, formal politeness vs casual care.
Related needs
Often confused with
Respect
Respect is regarding someone's dignity; consideration is actively thinking about their needs.