How labels become identity cages
January 1, 2026
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2:36Now PlayingHow labels become identity cages
YouTube Description
as posted by the channelCan labels be harmful?
Marvin Liyanage @marvinliyanage explores how broad, fixed labels can limit our growth if we aren't aware of them.
"You've probably heard of fixed vs. growth mindset, popularized by Carol Dweck. Usually that concept is thought of in relation to K-12 education and the fixed-mindsets that hold children back in their learning. When children hold beliefs such as "I'm dumb" or "I'm bad at math" they put in less effort and show less resilience. Is it possible that these findings say something more general about how fixed labels affect our growth in adulthood? What about terms like "perfectionist" and "introvert"? These terms can help us understand ourselves, find people with similar preferences, and protect us from guilt and pressure. Can they also be harmful?"
Correction: "In the video I say Kristin Hill but meant Kristin Neff, the author of the book, Self Compassion. In her book, she makes arguments for choosing mindfulness and common humanity over self-identification."
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