Receiving feedback is an emotional experience. We are also emotionally invested in our work. The results of our time and energy are direct reflections of our skills and knowledge. When those are negatively critiqued, our brains experience a chemical reaction and release higher levels of cortisol. This is commonly known as the flight or fight chemical, which essentially halts creativity and productivity. An opposite effect occurs as we receive praise. In these moments, our brains produce higher levels of oxytocin, a chemical that makes us feel good and secure (Sousa, 2017).
When feedback is related to performance, self-worth is either enhanced or challenged. Those who consistently receive negative feedback, with little positive recognition of talents or contributions, have more difficulty recovering from the temporary defeat than someone who is praised in a consistently higher ratio than criticized.