In Buddhism, dependent origination is a theory that illustrates how our experiences arise and continue based on certain conditions. This theory applies to the issue of avoiding introspection. When people avoid introspection, they lack self-awareness and a deep understanding of the true nature of reality. This lack of awareness creates mental formations that cause them to avoid dealing with internal experiences, preferring instead external distractions or superficial pleasures (sankhara).

This cycle perpetuates because their consciousness is conditioned by these mental formations and is biased against introspection (viññana). As a result, their physical and mental constitution manifests to be comfortable avoiding introspection and seeking external pleasures (nama-rupa). Their sense organs interact with the external world in a way that reinforces their tendency to avoid introspection (salayatana). This reinforces the pattern of seeking external stimuli rather than confronting ones own mind and emotions.

This pattern intensifies as the person encounters situations or stimuli that provide external pleasure or distractions (phassa). They experience pleasant feelings from these distractions, reinforcing their preference for avoiding introspection (vedana). As these patterns intensify, they develop a strong attachment to external pleasures, cravings and an aversion to internal experiences (tanha). Their attachment to external distractions intensifies, leading to a denial and repression of their internal experiences (upadana).

This cycle further hardens as the person grows more and more attached to these external distractions. Habits start to embed in them, perpetuating the cycle of avoidance and denial of introspection (bhava). By this point, the persons avoidance and denial of introspection manifest in a lack of self-awareness, poor emotional regulation, and a shallow understanding of themselves and others (jati). However, unaddressed avoidance of introspection can lead to physical, mental, and emotional suffering, perpetuating negative consequences in future situations or even future lives (jara-marana).

To break this cycle, one can cultivate mindfulness, develop a deeper understanding of oneself and others, and liberate themselves from suffering. The person can start by studying, reflecting on, and practicing the teachings of the Buddha to develop wisdom (avijja). They can also develop mindfulness and introspection practices to become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and behavior (sankhara). Furthermore, they can train their consciousness through mindfulness meditation and develop a deeper awareness of the workings of their mind (viññana).

Developing a deeper understanding of how their physical sensations and mental formations are interrelated, being mindful of their senses, and approaching experiences with more equanimity (nama-rupa, salayatana) are integral self-awareness techniques, as well giving space and allowing feelings to take their natural course (vedana). Mindfulness about how craving arises and responding to those mental states with mindfulness and equanimity are essential (tanha). Furthermore, recognizing how clinging perpetuates negative patterns of thought and behavior and learning to approach situations with greater equanimity is crucial (upadana). By cultivating wholesome habits, they can avoid being caught up in their patterns (bhava).

Through these practices, they can cultivate greater awareness of their internal experiences, leading them to develop an understanding of themselves and others. In conclusion, avoiding introspection perpetuates negative cycles of thought, emotion, and behavior; however, through mindfulness and a deeper understanding of dependent origination, one can break free from suffering.