The Region Beta Paradox, also known as the Bayesian Lindley paradox, is a paradox that arises in the context of hypothesis testing. It is usually used statistically but applies in a psychological sense too. Have you ever heard of a paradox? It’s when something seems strange and doesn’t make sense at first, but with some reasoning makes sense. The psychological hypothesis of the Region-Beta Paradox is a person is better off experiencing extreme trauma over tolerable trauma. In the spirit of being a paradox, that statement may seem odd. Why would experiencing an extreme be better?
We all find ourselves in situations that are stressful and undesirable. We would move on, but the space isn’t bad enough for us to move on. We don’t realize that we sign ourselves up for more of what is “manageable.” “Manageable” can cost us years of our lives. Yes, we can deal with a life of ongoing stress and irritation, but why?
The Region-Beta paradox is an occurrence where people occasionally bounce back from traumatic events more quickly than from less traumatic ones. The theory is intense emotions activate psychological defense mechanisms that lessen suffering. Lesser states do not activate these mechanisms, and as a result, less effective stress reduction takes place. This scenario is unfortunate because it leads to more stress, but also a more tolerable situation. Yes, it is odd. We are all living or have lived through this scenario.
If a person is already in an inadequate, but tolerable relationship, they will be less likely to leave it to find a better one. This choice will worsen their existing circumstances overall. If they were working in an undesirable position, the same would apply. The Region Beta Paradox states we should experience unbearable pain or disappointment to enable the ease of moving on. A job that overlooks us for promotions and gives us less than desirable raises is usually not enough to move on. A job that bypasses us for promotions, doesn’t provide raises, and promotes a less qualified individual would be enough of a slap in the face to leave. This move would occur without much thought. The scenario is enough simply leave. No stress, overthinking, or procrastination will occur. Only action.
In closing, the Region Beta Paradox highlights that tolerance does not mean the situation is best for you. It is most likely a foreshadowing of more stress and letdowns to come. We should remember we do not always get the outlandish scenario to allow us to move easily. We should recognize an endurable but unpleasant situation is not a position we should stay in. It is a losing situation for us. If we find ourselves in this position, consider the promise of future stress and letdowns as the unbearable occurrence that will get us to move. No stress. No overthinking. No procrastination. Just action.
Food for thought. You do the dishes!
