Rejection

Causes of rejection

Rejection can occur in romantic relationships, peer relationships or professional relationships. Furthermore, a person can be rejected by an individual or a group of people. Rejection can be classed as 'active' whereby actions such as bullying, teasing or ridicule are the cause. Or, rejection can be passive whereby the person is ignored or given what is commonly known as the 'silent treatment'.

Rejection is a part of being human and being rejected is inevitable at some stage in life. However, prolonged, persistent and deliberate rejection, particularly when a relationship holds significant importance, can be detrimental to health and wellbeing. Some people are more sensitive to rejection than others and rejection by a large group of people (such as friends or family) can have a significant negative impact on a person's psychological health.

The first experiences of rejection are during childhood where children perceive themselves as being liked or disliked. Typically, children who are more disliked than liked feel rejected. Once established, this peer rejection can be difficult to overcome and may continue into adult life.

Symptoms of rejection

Rejection can have a number of emotional and psychological symptoms. Common signs and symptoms of rejection include:

• Loneliness
• Low self-esteem
• Aggressive behaviour
• Insecurity
• Heightened sensitivity to rejection

Prolonged feelings of rejection can lead to chronic psychological problems such as anxiety, stress and depression.

Diagnosis of rejection

Rejection is not a condition in itself but it can cause symptoms that need treatment by a healthcare professional. In the first instance, visit your GP who will discuss the problem with you and suggest possible ways to help you overcome your feelings. For this, you may be referred to a mental health specialist such as a counsellor.

Related Terms

Exclusion
Social exclusion
Relationship issues
Sociometry
Ostracised
Interpersonal Problems
Bullying