Why Good People Do Bad Things: Th...

Why Good People Do Bad Things: The Hidden Psychology Behind Human Behavior

Strategies for Living by David C. McMillian, Ph.D. and Lauren Leon McMillian, M.S.
S33 · E84
Apr 29, 2026
42:00

Episode notes

Why do good people sometimes act in harmful, confusing, or even destructive ways? In this thought-provoking episode of Strategies for Living, David McMillian and Lauren Leon McMillian explore the deeper psychology behind human behavior—moving beyond labels of “good” and “bad” to understand what truly drives our actions.

Drawing from trauma, attachment patterns, survival instincts, and the need to belong, they unpack how past experiences, emotional triggers, and nervous system responses can override our values in the moment. From unresolved trauma and societal pressure to self-awareness gaps and the desire for control, this episode reveals why behavior is often a signal—not a definition—of who we are.

You’ll also discover practical strategies for increasing emotional awareness, regulating your nervous system, and creating the “sacred pause” that allows you to respond rather than react. If you’ve ever wondered how to make sense of your own behavior—or someone else’s—this conversation offers insight, compassion, and real tools for growth.

🎙️ Tune in for your daily dose of radio rehab and learn how understanding human behavior can lead to greater empathy, healing, and personal transformation.

Original Airdate: 4/29/2026

Keywords

nervous system regulation
why good people do bad things
mental health and behavior
empathy and compassion development
human behavior psychology
self awareness and growth
trauma and behavior
emotional triggers explained
attachment styles psychology
survival mode psychology