'validation-seeking' originates from the combination of 'validation' and 'seeking', where 'validation' comes from the Latin word 'validare', meaning 'to make strong or valid', and 'seeking' is derived from the Old English 'sēcan', meaning 'to go in search of'.

'validation' evolved from the Latin 'validare' through Old French 'valider', and 'seeking' from Old English 'sēcan'. The modern term 'validation-seeking' combines these to describe a psychological behavior.

Initially, 'validation' meant 'to make valid', but in modern usage, it has evolved to include the concept of seeking approval or affirmation.