Overcoming Pretentiousness: Guide To Authentic Interactions

Pretentiousness often stems from a desire to impress others or project an image of self-superiority. This behavior can elstrange people and serve as a barrier to developing genuine relationships. Synonyms of pretension are a showoff, pride fullness, and ostentation (merriam-webster). That means a negative character trait.

In this blog, we will discover why people adopt such behaviors and how to respond to them. Let’s dive in! 

Why do we dislike Pretentious people?

Disliking pretentious people is a common reaction because these people display a lack of authenticity while it is human nature to appreciate genuineness. These people portray an imbalance in social interactions. 

When you come across someone pretentious, you notice that they prioritize their image or accomplishments over genuine connection leading to several key reactions, which can frustrate you because you value authenticity and straightforwardness in communication.

A pretentious behavior comes across as an attempt to assert superiority through knowledge, status, or achievements, which can provoke feelings of inadequacy or defensiveness in other people, as it challenges the principle of equality in social interactions.

Such people lack empathy to understand others’ perspectives which can break down communication and a reluctance to engage. Societies generally value humility and dislike someone who showcases personal achievements or knowledge. Such behaviour violates social norms leading to social disapproval.

Difference between Pretentiousness and Authenticity

When it comes to connections with others and how one presents oneself, pretentiousness and sincerity are at different ends of the spectrum. Below is a summary of their main differences:

Opting to be authentic, even at the risk of being misunderstood as pretentious, aligns with valuing one’s genuine self-expression over others’ opinions. Prioritizing the perception of authenticity, despite an underlying pretentiousness, suggests a preference for external validation and societal acceptance. 

Social standing, the need for approval from others, and pretending to be something they’re not by others are the driving forces behind pretentiousness. While internal values, self-acceptance, and the need for sincere relationships and self-expression are what motivate authenticity.

Pretentiousness makes it difficult to relate to people authentically, it frequently results in superficial interactions based on outward appearances or status rather than meaningful connections. Whereas, uthenticity builds stronger, more meaningful relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and understanding.

Pretension creates cognitive dissonance and a shattered sense of self as they attempt to make sense of the differences between their real selves and their projected selves.  Whereas, authenticity promotes an integrated view of self and increases self-awareness and self-acceptance.

Eventually, the choice reflects a balance between the desire for authentic self-representation and the concern for how one is viewed by others. 

Example of pretentiousness

Pretentiousness is characterized by actions or attitudes that lack true substance or authenticity and are instead intended to impress or appear superior to others. Here are a few examples to help clarify:

• It could be deemed pretentious if someone constantly uses excessively sophisticated vocabulary in casual conversation to come across as smarter or more intelligent than they are, especially when using simpler words would be sufficient.
• Bringing up connections to prominent or powerful persons regularly, no matter how close those ties are, to elevate oneself in society.
• Expressing contempt for mainstream or popular culture while praising esoteric, specialized, or intellectual pursuits in an attempt to come out as more sophisticated or sophisticated.
• Displaying lavish possessions or boasting about costly items without sincere gratitude to demonstrate wealth or status.
• Adopting tastes, mannerisms, or interests not out of genuine appreciation but because they are deemed socially or intellectually prestigious.

Psychological factors behind Pretentiousness

Pretentiousness often stems from underlying psychological factors:

1. Insecurity. People may project an air of superiority as a way to cope with feelings of insecurity about their abilities or worth. Acting pretentiousness might be a way for someone to hide feelings of inferiority.

2. Need for Acceptance. People may exhibit exaggerated behaviors or proficiency out of a desire to fit in or be respected by a specific group. This is frequently about getting accepted or fitting in.

3. Poor self-esteem. People who have poor self-esteem may overcompensate, much like those who are insecure. They may think that projecting an image of greater sophistication, intelligence, or accomplishment will increase their worth or likeability.

4. Social Comparison. People who live in societies that place a high value on status and intelligence may become pompous in an attempt to fit in or stand out from those around them.

5. Ego Defence. Ego defense mechanisms shield a person’s ego from emotions and might take the form of arrogant behavior.

6. Cultural and Environmental Influences. Pretentious behaviors can also be shaped by the social, educational, and professional environments in which an individual is raised or works, particularly if there is a dominant culture that encourages or glorifies these views.

7. Need for Control. The desire to be in charge or to shape how other people see themselves can also be the root cause of pretense. People who manage the story around their identity may believe they have the power to influence how other people see them and respond to them.

8. Relationship dynamics and attachment styles. These factors can have an impact on a person’s sense of self-worth and the methods they take to get approval from others, such as taking on pretentious behaviors.

Knowing these psychological bases may assist in addressing and reducing arrogant behavior in oneself and social situations, promoting relationships that are more genuine and meaningful.

How to Deal with  pretentious people politely ?

Communication requires self-awareness and flexibility to strike a balance between pretentiousness and authenticity. The following describes how to move between these two:

1. Request Clarification. If someone uses slang or makes obscure references, gently request that they explain or clarify their argument. This suggests that they should simplify their explanation while also quietly indicating that everyone should be able to participate in conversations.

2. Share Your Own Experiences. Be honest and humble when sharing your own stories and ideas, rather than attempting to equal their level of sophistication. This strategy can assist move the discussion in the direction of a more sincere and relatable encounter, highlighting the importance of sincerity and simplicity.

3. Use Humour. Any pretentiousness can be tamed with a lighthearted remark or joke. You might subtly invite a more grounded conversation by jokingly pointing out how difficult or confusing the subject is. Just be careful that your humor is constructive rather than demeaning.

4. Redirect the Conversation. Gently push the discussion in the direction of wider subjects if it starts to get too limited or one-sided. Suggest a topic to debate that will inspire participation from everybody in attendance and create a more lively and dynamic conversation.

5. Highlight Points of Similarity. List and highlight any common beliefs, experiences, or passions. This shows that there is a foundation for mutual respect and understanding despite differences in expression or competence, which helps promote a more equitable and polite conversation.

6. Give Complements. Although it’s necessary to correct haughty behavior, praising someone for their expertise or experience helps reduce criticism. By praising their enthusiasm or wisdom and then highlighting the efforts of others, you can create a more inclusive and harmonious atmosphere.

7. Establish Boundaries. Establish firm yet gentle boundaries if the behavior continues. In a polite manner, state that you prefer direct, open communication.

 This can help establish a more constructive and respectful dialogue

How does pretentiousness win against authenticity?

Pretentiousness may “win” for a moment against authenticity in some situations because of social, professional, or cultural forces that value outward appearances, status symbols, or the impression of success but not in the long run. Here are a few situations in which this could happen:

Social Status and Networking

Pretentious behavior may provide temporary benefits in settings where social status and connections are highly prized since it can give the impression of success or significance that opens doors to specific social or professional circles.

First Impressions

Being pretentious can make a big impact on people, making them think you’re more intelligent, skilled, or well-versed than you are. This can be especially helpful in high-stakes meetings or job interviews where making a good first impression is crucial.

Cultural Capital

Pretentiousness can be interpreted as a sign of superiority or belonging in communities that place a high value on particular kinds of knowledge, interests, or belongings. This can result in social acceptance or inclusion.

Customer Behaviour

Products are associated with exclusivity, luxury, or sophistication in marketing and branding, which preys on consumers’ boastful tendencies. In an attempt to conform to these imagined norms, consumers may then take on pretentious attitudes or actions.

Final Words

It’s crucial to remember, though, that pretentiousness frequently has transient benefits that fade with time. Genuineness tends to create stronger, more meaningful connections and a more stable platform for long-term personal and professional progress, even while it may not always bring instant satisfaction or recognition.

Authentic people are more likely to form sincere bonds with others, gain respect for their accomplishments and attributes, and retain a stable sense of self that is unaffected by shifting societal norms or expectations.