BLUF
Critical feedback activates threat responses, while kindness triggers safety and bonding neurochemistry. Leaders can improve feedback effectiveness by framing it as supportive; managing physiological reactions; and fostering a culture of honest, low-threat conversations.Learning Outcomes
- Describe how the brain’s threat and kindness pathways influence reactions to giving and receiving feedback.
- Identify factors that lead to avoidance or softening of critical feedback in leadership contexts.
- Demonstrate techniques to frame feedback as supportive, creating low-threat feedback moments.
