Interesting insight into David Beckham’s personality style

Maybe not, as the Netflix series, Beckham, got 12.4 million views in its first week…

However, what I’m more interested in is David Beckhams personality style – do we see glimpses over an overcontrolled personality style throughout the series, did this help him become a great footballer, and is there anything we can learn from his story?

Can you have too much self-control?

Self-control, the ability to inhibit competing urges, impulses, behaviors, or desires and delay gratification in order to pursue future goals is often equated with success and happiness. However, too much self-control, or overcontrol (OC), characterised by maladaptive perfectionism, compulsive striving and high levels of distress tolerance can be equally problematic. Overcontrol is associated with social isolation, loneliness, poor interpersonal functioning, and severe and difficult-to-treat mental health problems, such as anorexia nervosa, chronic depression, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (e.g., Lynch & Cheavens, 2008; Zucker et al., 2007). 

Many professional sports people have an overcontrolled coping style; after all, to succeed at such a high level you have to have discipline, determination, and great distress tolerance! But even at lower levels of sport, it’s often the combination of an OC temperament and early parental environment that shapes sporting success – and perhaps more importantly, personality.

Throughout the Beckham documentary there are multiple moments where David Beckham exemplifies an over-controlled coping style, and we see how a combination of David’s temperament (nature) and early family environment (nurture) shaped and reinforced this coping style. In RO DBT, this convergence of nature and nurture is referred to as the ‘biosocial theory’. You can watch a video of Dr Lynch, the RO DBT treatment developer, talking about the theory here:

In the early episodes, David’s dad, Ted, beautifully illustrates one aspect of the OC ‘nurture’ element of the theory – a parent that overvalues performance, high achievement and winning. David remembers his dad taking him out for hours to practice – “left foot, right foot, over and over and over again, OK, not good enough, do it again, not good enough, do it again, over and over again”. David tells us he was more scared when his dad was watching him play because “I knew if I put a foot wrong, he’d tell me. And he’d always tell me. Always.” We learn Ted never complimented David, and when Ted was asked if he was too tough on David, he replies: “No, if I told him how good he was, then he’s got nothing to work at”.

Research shows that highlighting mistakes as intolerable, with an emphasis on winning, can send a message to the child that they are never good enough, and contribute to the development of maladaptive perfectionism. All too often, controlling behaviour by parents and coaches is portrayed as necessary for success as an athlete. But evidence shows this idea is mistaken. In fact, such an approach can be detrimental to both a child’s chances of sporting success and their wellbeing. Evidence suggests it:

  • harms children’s confidence and self-esteem.
  • is associated with depression and anxiety.
  • increases competition anxiety.
  • and leads to sports dropout.

An experiment at the 2012 Olympic Games found coaches with a more supportive approach achieved higher medal tallies than those who did not (Cheon, Reeve, Lee and Lee 2015). Although this study was focused on coaches, many parents act as coaches for their children (and not just for sports activities), making these findings important for us to bear in mind – as parents and as mental health professionals.

David Beckham was gifted with a natural talent that compensated and complimented the controlling behaviour of his dad, football coaches and managers – but he is one in a million!

For the other nine hundred and ninety-nine thousand of us, a focus on fun, learning new skills, making friends, and being part of a team can help kids, their parents and their coaches get the most out of the games they love – and, perhaps more importantly, help build a happier, healthier life.

*Temperament: genetic predispositions that determine the way we experience and react to the world

This article was sourced through Radically Open Ltd’s website at https://www.radicallyopen.net/blog/david-beckham-too-much-of-a-good-thing/?fbclid=IwAR1o3AM-FK5zUG-zt-Zk8nZjta1kQ6XdupyEPgwJTwW5SELYjwyjiBpxALo

RO DBT Australia is a service of the Australian DBT Institute that supports individuals to access appropriately trained practitioners in the evidence-based approach of Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO DBT). The Australian DBT Institute also collaborates with Radically Open Ltd to educate mental health professionals in the Asia Pacific Region in RO DBT.

Understanding the Five Key OC Themes in RO DBT

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is a highly effective evidence-based treatment approach that has been developed over the past 25 years through extensive clinical research. It is specifically designed to address a range of disorders characterized by excessive self-control, commonly known as overcontrol (OC).

At our specialised clinics, we offer RO DBT treatment that combines individual therapy sessions and skills training classes. This comprehensive approach allows us to clinically target five key OC themes that often contribute to the development and maintenance of these disorders.

Inhibited and Disingenuous Emotional Expression

Individuals with OC tendencies often struggle to express their emotions openly and authentically. RO DBT helps them learn to identify and regulate their emotions effectively, promoting more genuine and spontaneous emotional expression.

Hyper-Detailed Focused and Overly Cautious Behavior

RO DBT addresses the tendency to become excessively focused on details and overly cautious in behavior. By teaching individuals to strike a balance between attention to detail and flexibility, we help them develop healthier and more adaptive behaviors.

Rigid and Rule-Governed Behavior

Many individuals with OC traits tend to adhere rigidly to rules and routines, making it difficult for individuals to adapt to changing circumstances. RO DBT helps them develop the skills to be more flexible and adaptable, enhancing their ability to navigate life’s challenges.

Aloof and Distant Style of Relating

Individuals with OC traits often struggle with forming and maintaining close relationships due to their aloof and distant style of relating. Through RO DBT, individuals learn how to effectively engage with others and cultivate healthy interpersonal connections.

High Social Comparison and Envy/Bitterness

RO DBT addresses the tendency to engage in excessive social comparison and experience envy or bitterness towards others. By helping individuals develop self-compassion and a sense of self-worth, we enable them to break free from these detrimental patterns of thinking and relating.

In addition to our clinical services, we also offer in-person and online training programs for mental health professionals who are interested in incorporating Radically Open DBT into their practice. These training programs provide the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively treat patients with severe and difficult-to-treat mental health problems.

At our clinics, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality RO DBT treatment and training. If you or someone you know is struggling with overcontrol and related disorders, we are here to help.

RO DBT Australia is a service of the Australian DBT Institute that supports individuals to access appropriately trained practitioners in the evidence-based approach of Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO DBT). The Australian DBT Institute also collaborates with Radically Open Ltd to educate mental health professionals in the Asia Pacific Region in RO DBT.

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy: A Breakthrough in Overcontrol Disorders

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that has revolutionised the field of mental health. With over 25 years of clinical research supporting its effectiveness, RO DBT is specifically designed for individuals who struggle with excessive self-control, also known as overcontrol (OC).

At our specialized clinics, we offer RO DBT treatment that combines individual therapy sessions and skills training classes. This comprehensive approach allows us to effectively target and address the five key themes associated with overcontrol:

  • Inhibited and Disingenuous Emotional Expression: Many individuals with overcontrol tendencies find it difficult to express their emotions authentically. RO DBT helps them develop the skills to identify and express their emotions in a healthy and genuine manner.
  • Hyper-Detailed Focused and Overly Cautious Behavior: Overcontrollers often exhibit a perfectionistic and cautious approach to their behaviors. RO DBT assists individuals in finding a balance between being detail-oriented and flexible in their actions.
  • Rigid and Rule-Governed Behavior: RO DBT challenges the rigid thinking patterns and rule-bound behaviors commonly seen in individuals with overcontrol. By fostering flexibility, individuals can learn to adapt to different situations more effectively.
  • Aloof and Distant Style of Relating: Overcontrollers may struggle with forming close and meaningful relationships due to their aloof and distant communication style. RO DBT helps individuals develop interpersonal skills and connect with others in a more authentic way.
  • High Social Comparison and Envy/Bitterness: Overcontrollers often compare themselves to others and experience envy or bitterness. RO DBT teaches individuals how to cultivate self-compassion and reduce the negative impact of social comparisons.

In addition to our treatment services, we also offer in-person and online training for mental health professionals who are interested in incorporating Radically Open DBT into their practice. We understand the importance of expanding access to this groundbreaking therapy for individuals with severe and difficult-to-treat mental health problems.

RO DBT has the power to transform lives by providing individuals with the tools and skills they need to break free from the constraints of overcontrol. If you or someone you know is struggling with excessive self-control, our specialized clinics are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how RO DBT can make a difference in your life.

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy: A Breakthrough Treatment

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is a groundbreaking treatment approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective in addressing a range of disorders characterized by excessive self-control, commonly known as overcontrol (OC). With over 25 years of clinical research supporting its efficacy, RO DBT offers new hope for individuals struggling with these conditions.

What is Overcontrol?

Overcontrol refers to a set of behaviors and thought patterns that involve excessive self-control and inhibiting emotional expression. People with overcontrol tendencies often exhibit traits such as hyper-detailed focus, rigid rule-governed behavior, aloofness in relationships, and a tendency towards social comparison and envy.

How RO DBT Works

RO DBT treatment involves a combination of individual therapy sessions and skills training classes. The therapy focuses on addressing the five core themes of overcontrol:

  • Inhibited and disingenuous emotional expression
  • Hyper-detailed focused and overly cautious behavior
  • Rigid and rule-governed behavior
  • Aloof and distant style of relating
  • High social comparison and envy/bitterness

By targeting these specific areas, RO DBT aims to help individuals develop more flexible and adaptive behaviors, enhance emotional expression, and improve social connections.

RO DBT Treatment at Our Specialised Clinics

Our specialised clinics offer RO DBT treatment for individuals struggling with overcontrol-related disorders. Our experienced therapists provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions and develop new coping strategies.

The treatment consists of regular individual therapy sessions, where clients work one-on-one with their therapist to address their unique challenges. In addition, skills training classes are offered to teach clients practical skills that can be applied in their daily lives.

Training for Mental Health Professionals

We also offer comprehensive training programs for mental health professionals who wish to develop their expertise in Radically Open DBT. Our in-person and online training courses provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement RO DBT with their patients effectively.

By expanding the availability of RO DBT services, we aim to reach more individuals with severe and difficult-to-treat mental health problems and provide them with the support they need to lead fulfilling lives.

RO DBT Australia is a service of the Australian DBT Institute that supports individuals to access appropriately trained practitioners in the evidence-based approach of Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO DBT). The Australian DBT Institute also collaborates with Radically Open Ltd to educate mental health professionals in the Asia Pacific Region in RO DBT.

Understanding Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT)

Introduction

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that has been supported by over 30 years of clinical research. It is specifically designed to target a range of disorders characterized by excessive self-control, commonly referred to as overcontrol (OC).

What is RO DBT?

RO DBT is a specialized form of therapy that combines individual treatment sessions and skills training classes. It focuses on addressing five key themes related to overcontrol:

  1. Inhibited and disingenuous emotional expression
  2. Hyper-detailed focused and overly cautious behavior
  3. Rigid and rule-governed behavior
  4. Aloof and distant style of relating
  5. High social comparison and envy/bitterness

How does RO DBT work?

RO DBT works by targeting the underlying issues associated with overcontrol. It aims to help individuals develop more flexible and adaptive behaviors, improve social connectedness, and enhance emotional well-being.

The treatment involves a combination of individual therapy sessions and skills training classes. In individual therapy, the therapist helps the individual identify and understand their overcontrolled behaviors and emotions. They also work on developing new strategies for managing these behaviors and emotions more effectively.

The skills training classes focus on teaching individuals specific skills that can help them regulate their emotions, improve their communication skills, and enhance their ability to form and maintain relationships.

Who can benefit from RO DBT?

RO DBT is particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with disorders characterized by excessive self-control, such as chronic depression, treatment-resistant anxiety, anorexia nervosa, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and autism spectrum disorders.

Training for Mental Health Professionals

In addition to providing treatment to individuals, our specialized clinics also offer in-person and online training for mental health professionals who are interested in developing their skills in providing Radically Open DBT services. This training equips professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively treat patients with severe and difficult-to-treat mental health problems.

Conclusion

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that targets overcontrol and has been proven effective in treating a range of mental health disorders. Whether you are seeking treatment for yourself or looking to enhance your skills as a mental health professional, RO DBT offers a holistic approach that can help individuals develop more adaptive behaviors, improve emotional well-being, and enhance social connectedness.

RO DBT Australia is a service of the Australian DBT Institute that supports individuals to access appropriately trained practitioners in the evidence-based approach of Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO DBT). The Australian DBT Institute also collaborates with Radically Open Ltd to educate mental health professionals in the Asia Pacific Region in RO DBT.

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy: A Treatment for Overcontrol

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that has been supported by over 30 years of clinical research. It is specifically designed to target a range of disorders characterized by excessive self-control, commonly referred to as overcontrol (OC).

At our specialized clinics, we offer RO DBT treatment that combines individual therapy sessions and skills training classes. This comprehensive approach aims to address five key themes related to overcontrol:

  1. Inhibited and Disingenuous Emotional Expression: Individuals with OC often struggle to express their emotions genuinely and openly. RO DBT helps them learn to identify and express their emotions in a healthy and authentic way.
  2. Hyper-Detailed Focused and Overly Cautious Behavior: OC individuals tend to engage in overly meticulous and cautious behaviors. RO DBT teaches them to strike a balance between being detail-oriented and flexible in their actions.
  3. Rigid and Rule-Governed Behavior: RO DBT helps individuals with OC challenge and modify their rigid and inflexible behavioral patterns. It encourages them to embrace change and adaptability.
  4. Aloof and Distant Style of Relating: Those with OC often struggle with social connections and may come across as aloof or distant. RO DBT focuses on improving interpersonal skills and fostering meaningful relationships.
  5. High Social Comparison and Envy/Bitterness: Individuals with OC may frequently compare themselves to others and experience envy or bitterness. RO DBT helps them develop a healthier perspective on social comparison and cultivate positive emotions towards others.

In addition to providing RO DBT treatment, we also offer training for mental health professionals who want to develop Radically Open DBT services for patients with severe and difficult-to-treat mental health problems. Our in-person and online training programs equip professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement RO DBT in their practice.

RO DBT Australia is a service of the Australian DBT Institute that supports individuals to access appropriately trained practitioners in the evidence-based approach of Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO DBT). The Australian DBT Institute also collaborates with Radically Open Ltd to educate mental health professionals in the Asia Pacific Region in RO DBT.