verb exhibiting excessive flattery or affection; to show exaggerated attention or affection towards someone in order to gain favor or approval
In literature, 'fawning' may be used to describe a character's obsequious or sycophantic behavior towards another character, often to highlight themes of power dynamics or manipulation.
In psychology, 'fawning' is used to describe a behavior characterized by excessive flattery or admiration towards someone in authority, often as a response to perceived threat or insecurity.
In the study of animal behavior, 'fawning' refers to a submissive or appeasing behavior exhibited by certain species, such as dogs or deer, as a way to show deference or avoid conflict.
In social interactions, 'fawning' can be observed as a form of insincere flattery or ingratiating behavior used to gain favor or approval from others.
In a professional setting, a writer may use the term 'fawning' to describe a character's behavior in a story or to critique a certain writing style that excessively praises or flatters someone or something.
Psychologists may use the term 'fawning' in the context of discussing attachment styles, specifically in relation to the 'fawn' response in the 'fawn, fight, flight, freeze' model of responses to trauma.
A public relations specialist may use 'fawning' to describe overly flattering or obsequious behavior towards clients or in media interactions, cautioning against insincere praise.
HR managers may use 'fawning' to address concerns about workplace dynamics, such as employees engaging in excessive flattery to gain favor or manipulate others, which can lead to a toxic work environment.