Updated: December 16, 2020
Originally Published: November 11, 2014
I have a knack for dodging my bank balance. Weeks can go by—sometimes even months—before I muster the courage to check it. I tell myself I’ll look in a few days, yet the longer I delay, the more anxious I become. When I finally do think about logging in, the dread of discovering my dwindling funds—or worse, an overdraft—makes me squirm. Ignorance feels comfortable; I prefer to stay blissfully unaware.
We’ve all been there at some point: shying away from potential bad news. Perhaps you’ve avoided visiting the doctor for nagging symptoms out of fear that they might signify something serious. Maybe you’re postponing tough discussions with your partner because you dread hearing they might not be happy. Or like me, you might think that if you delay stepping on the scale long enough after the holidays, those extra pounds will somehow vanish.
The Psychology Behind Avoiding Bad News
Research shows this tendency, known as information avoidance, is quite common. Studies reveal that individuals often shy away from critical information, even when it could ultimately be detrimental to their well-being. For instance, many people choose not to learn about their risk of certain diseases, despite the fact that understanding their risk could lead to necessary treatment. Furthermore, after making a decision, people tend to seek out information that confirms their choice, avoiding anything that could challenge their beliefs. A comprehensive review of research on “selective exposure” indicated that individuals are nearly twice as likely to engage with information that aligns with their existing beliefs rather than contradictory data.
James Carter, a psychology expert at the University of California, identifies three primary reasons we might steer clear of unwanted information:
- Fear of Changing Beliefs: Discovering that a long-held belief is incorrect—especially if it’s tied to our identity—can be unsettling. It’s much easier to remain anchored in what we already believe, particularly when that belief is validated by the information we consume.
- Reluctance to Take Action: Learning that a minor toothache necessitates a root canal is not only costly but also painful. Persisting in uncertainty, where the toothache might turn out to be nothing serious, often feels more palatable.
- Desire to Avoid Distress: Ultimately, we might simply not want to confront information that could upset us. Stepping on the scale and seeing a weight gain tends to evoke negative feelings.
Why Knowing the Truth is Beneficial
These tendencies are understandable; who wants to face the possibility of significant health risks, wrong decisions, or misguided beliefs? Yet, this short-term thinking can lead to long-term consequences. Ignoring a serious dental issue won’t make it disappear; it may only intensify the pain and lead to further complications. Discovering I need a root canal may be uncomfortable now, but it allows me to tackle the problem and improves my situation in the long run.
Similarly, avoiding the scale doesn’t alter reality. Often, aligning our beliefs with the truth empowers us to effect change—whether it’s shedding extra pounds or seeking necessary medical care. Of course, there are instances where ignorance may be bliss; if the truth holds no relevance and can’t be acted upon, it might not serve a purpose to know. For example, I’d prefer not to uncover whether an old flame was unfaithful, as it wouldn’t contribute positively to my current life.
Overcoming Information Avoidance
Recognizing the need to know the truth is one thing; putting it into practice is another. How can you motivate yourself to check your bank balance, step on the scale, or schedule that doctor’s appointment? Professor Carter and his colleagues have explored this dilemma and found that people are more inclined to learn about their health risks after participating in a “contemplation” exercise. This exercise encourages individuals to reflect on the long-term implications of their knowledge, shifting their mindset from, “Finding out I’m at serious risk sounds dreadful!” to a more rational, “Ultimately, knowing could help me reduce that risk.”
The next time you find yourself hesitating to check your finances or delay a doctor’s visit, take a moment to contemplate: Is ignorance truly preferable? Or might you be complicating your life in the long run? I’ve discovered it helpful to weigh the pros and cons of knowing versus not knowing. For instance, avoiding my bank balance may spare me some immediate stress, but it only prolongs my anxiety, which is likely to worsen over time. On the flip side, checking it now allows me to plan my next steps—maybe it’s not as dire as I fear!
Learning the truth may be uncomfortable, but it also equips us to tackle challenges head-on. Aldous Huxley wisely noted, “Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored.”
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Summary
Facing bad news can be daunting, but understanding and confronting it often leads to better outcomes. By examining the reasons behind our tendency to avoid uncomfortable information, we can shift our mindset and take proactive steps toward improvement. Knowing the truth, despite its initial discomfort, ultimately empowers us to make informed decisions and enhance our well-being.