Respect
Also known as consideration, dignity, regard, self-respect
The need to be treated with consideration and regard for one's inherent worth. Recognition that one matters and deserves fair treatment.
When met or unmet
When met
- Being treated with dignity
- Having your boundaries honoured
- Feeling valued as a person
When unmet
- Feeling dismissed or talked down to
- Having boundaries ignored
- Being treated as less than
Common expressions
I deserve some respect They treat me like I'm nothing All I ask is to be treated fairly
Strategies
- Setting boundaries when treated dismissively
- Surrounding yourself with people who value you
- Treating yourself with the respect you seek from others
- Speaking up when your dignity is violated
Recognition questions
- → Am I being treated as someone who matters?
- → Do the people in my life consider my needs and perspectives?
- → Do I respect myself in my own self-treatment?
Somatic markers
When met
- Standing tall, upright posture
- A sense of solidity and self-worth
- Relaxed confidence
When unmet
- Feeling small, diminished, or invisible
- Hot flush of humiliation or anger
- Urge to fight back or withdraw entirely
Shadow side
- Demanding respect through domination or intimidation
- Confusing respect with agreement or deference
- Excessive sensitivity to perceived slights
Cultural considerations
Respect markers differ greatly: titles, physical gestures, eye contact, personal space. What signals respect in one culture may seem cold or excessive in another.
Related needs
Often confused with
Appreciation
Appreciation is about recognising value and contribution; respect is about basic dignity and consideration regardless of achievement.
Consideration
Consideration involves thinking about impact; respect can exist without specific consideration.
Dignity
Respect can be earned through action; dignity is inherent and cannot be forfeited.