Definitions Vulnerability Vulnerability is derived from the Latin noun “vulnus” meaning “wound.” The Oxford Dictionary defines it as: “The quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally” (English Oxford Living Dictionary). This definition of vulnerability as a susceptibility to harm is found in many different iterations depending on the field of study. Vulnerability researcher Brené Brown, on the other hand, defines it as “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure” and adds that “weakness often stems from a lack of vulnerability – when we don’t acknowledge how and where we’re tender, we’re more at risk of being hurt.” 1 Her definition is not necessarily so different, but it balances the skew towards a negative outcome of exposure in the Oxford definition, leaving the door open to more possibilities. “Our rejection of vulnerability” writes Brown, “often stems from our associating it with dark emotions like fear, shame, grief, sadness, and disappointment—emotions that we don’t want to discuss, even when they profoundly affect the way we live, love, work, and even lead. What most of us fail to understand… is that vulnerability is also the cradle of the emotions and experiences that we crave… Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose… vulnerability is the path”.2 This is the definition and understanding of “vulnerability” that was used in this research, and its resonance with the definitions offered by survey contributors themselves is striking:
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Brown, Brené. Daring Greatly. London: Avery Publishing Group, 2015. Book. Ibid.
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