Understanding the Bragger: Reasons Why Someone Might Engage in Bragging

Insecurity: They might brag to cover up feelings of inadequacy or to seek validation from others.

Low self-esteem: Bragging could be a way for them to boost their self-worth by emphasizing their achievements or possessions.

Attention-seeking: They may crave attention and admiration from others, using bragging as a means to achieve this.

Competition: Bragging could stem from a desire to outshine or one-up others in social or professional settings.

Impress others: They might brag to create a favorable impression or to appear more successful or accomplished than they actually are.

Masking weaknesses: Bragging could be a way for them to divert attention away from their shortcomings or failures.

Insecurity about status: Bragging may stem from a fear of being perceived as lower in social or professional hierarchy.

Seeking approval: They might brag in an attempt to gain approval or admiration from peers, family, or authority figures.

Validation: Bragging could be a way for them to validate their own worth or achievements by seeking recognition from others.

Self-promotion: They may engage in bragging as a strategic tactic to advance their career or social standing by showcasing their skills or accomplishments.

Dealing with a Bragger

Acknowledge their achievements: Sometimes, bragging stems from a need for validation. By acknowledging their achievements, you may reduce their need to brag.  

Redirect the conversation: Shift the focus of the conversation to other topics or to other people's achievements to balance the discussion.

Set boundaries: Politely but firmly let the bragger know when their boasting is becoming too much. For example, "It's great that you're proud of your accomplishments, but let's hear from others too."

Practice empathy: Try to understand the reasons behind their bragging. They might be insecure or seeking approval, which can guide your response.

Be a good listener: Sometimes braggers just need someone to listen to them. By giving them your attention for a short while, they might feel heard and reduce their need to brag.

Change the subject: Smoothly steer the conversation towards a different topic that is less likely to trigger bragging.

Use humor: Lightly joking about the bragging without being mean can sometimes help diffuse the situation and make the bragger aware of their behavior.

Share your own experiences: Instead of competing, share your own achievements in a humble manner to model balanced communication.

Ask open-ended questions: Encourage the bragger to think deeper by asking questions that require more than just a recounting of their achievements, such as "What did you learn from that experience?"

Focus on teamwork: Highlight the importance of collective success and how everyone's contributions are valuable, not just individual accomplishments. Stay calm and composed: Avoid getting irritated or showing annoyance, as this can escalate the situation. Keep your responses calm and neutral.

Encourage humility: Gently remind them that everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and that humility is a valued trait.

Offer private feedback: If appropriate, talk to the bragger privately about how their behavior affects others and suggest more modest ways to share their accomplishments.

Lead by example: Demonstrate modesty in your own behavior. Show how to share achievements without bragging.

Limit your time with them: If the bragging becomes too much to handle, reduce the amount of time you spend with the person to maintain your own peace of mind.