Social rejection refers to the psychological and emotional experience of an individual being excluded, ostracized, or ignored by others within a social group or community. It is a form of interpersonal disapproval that involves the perceived exclusion or avoidance of an individual by their peers or social network. This can occur in various social settings, such as school, work, or social gatherings.
Social rejection often results in feelings of isolation, loneliness, and low self-esteem, leading to negative consequences for the individual's mental well-being. It can manifest through direct actions, such as being ignored, excluded from social activities, or rejected from a peer group. It can also be implicit, such as when others engage in hostile verbal or nonverbal behaviors towards the individual.
The experience of social rejection can have profound effects on an individual's emotional state and functioning. It has been associated with heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and decreased overall life satisfaction. Individuals who face chronic social rejection may develop social anxiety disorder or other mental health issues.
Social rejection may be influenced by various factors, including physical appearance, personality traits, social skills, or membership in specific social groups. It can be intentional or unintentional and may be an individual or collective act. Overcoming social rejection may require developing coping strategies, seeking social support, and building self-esteem through self-acceptance and self-compassion. Understanding the mechanisms and consequences of social rejection is important for fostering inclusivity, empathy, and positive social interactions within society.
The word "social rejection" combines two terms: "social" and "rejection".
The term "social" originated from the Latin word "socius", which means "companion" or "friend". Over time, it evolved to refer to human interactions and relationships. In English, "social" began to be used in the late 16th century to describe matters related to companionship, society, or interaction between people.
"Rejection", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "rejectio", which means "to throw back" or "to cast off". The English word "rejection" emerged in the early 16th century and signifies the act of refusing or dismissing something or someone.
Therefore, the etymology of "social rejection" reveals that it refers to the act or experience of being discarded or excluded from social interactions or relationships.