The line between being “uncomfortable” and “unsafe” has become a significant topic in discussions about psychological safety, especially as our understanding of these concepts evolves. This post draws on insights from the presentation “Uncomfortable Versus Unsafe: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Emerging Perceptions of Safety” by Sarah Klaper of Northwestern University and Carol Gregory of Baldwin Wallace University.
Safe Spaces and Their Evolution
Originally conceived as environments to protect those who have experienced harm or trauma, safe spaces have evolved into tools for fostering inclusivity and dialogue. However, this evolution has sparked debates: Are safe spaces always beneficial, or do they sometimes limit opportunities for growth by discouraging challenging conversations?
Navigating the Divide: Unsafe or Uncomfortable?
In today’s world, safety is often viewed through an increasingly individualistic lens. Millennials and Gen Z, for instance, have broadened the concept of safety to include mental health and emotional well-being. This shift has created tension between the legitimate need for psychological safety and the potential misuse of the concept to avoid discomfort.
So how do we distinguish between the two? Unsafe conditions typically involve observable threats or explicit harm, whereas discomfort arises from exposure to challenging ideas or situations that push us beyond our comfort zones. Subjective experiences, such as personal trauma or emotional triggers, further blur this line, highlighting the importance of balancing objective criteria with empathy. After all, what feels uncomfortable to one person may feel unsafe to another—and vice versa. The boundaries we draw are deeply personal and can vary widely from person to person.
Why Discomfort is Essential
While safety is non-negotiable, discomfort is an essential driver of personal and professional growth. Engaging in difficult conversations allows individuals and teams to deepen understanding, build resilience, and foster innovation. Striking a balance between these dynamics requires:
- Education: Helping individuals and organizations recognize the distinction between unsafe and uncomfortable.
- Policy Clarity: Crafting policies that address safety concerns while encouraging dialogue.
- Trauma-Informed Practices: Building trust and establishing clear boundaries to create environments conducive to constructive discussion.
Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue
True safe spaces aren’t about avoiding discomfort; they are about cultivating trust. These environments allow individuals to express themselves freely, confront misunderstandings, and engage with diverse perspectives. When discomfort is managed appropriately, it can serve as a catalyst for growth, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Closing Thoughts
Navigating the line between safety and discomfort requires nuance, intentionality, and a willingness to embrace complexity. By addressing these issues thoughtfully, we can foster environments that respect individuals’ needs while embracing the growth that comes from difficult—but necessary—conversations.
Acknowledgment:
This post is inspired by the presentation “Uncomfortable Versus Unsafe: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Emerging Perceptions of Safety” by Sarah Klaper, Ombudsperson at Northwestern University and Carol Gregory, Professor at Baldwin Wallace University. Their work provides an invaluable framework for understanding and navigating this critical topic.
By Elizabeth Hill, Associate Director, University of Colorado Ombuds Office, Co-Editor of Ombuzz