The Role of Rejection Sensitivity in People’s Relationships with Significant Others and Valued Social Groups

Abstract This chapter depicts the different sensitivity levels to low relational valuation. Differences in rejection responses are described using the attachment and attribution paradigm, which examines reactions through the cognitive processes and the affective aspects of individuals. Possible sources of discrimination might come from family members, friends, romantic partners, and valued memberships. Consistently, a collection of studies put forward that highly reactive people frequently act in a manner which forces others not to accept them. Cited here are accounts of heinous crimes and suicidal tendencies committed by individuals who suffer from marginalization, broken families, unsuccessful affiliations, and the destructive feelings that accompany these events. However, there are instances where people cope with their unfulfilled need for belongingness and security through adaptive and productive behaviors. In the latter discussion of the chapter are suggestions on how to disrupt the potential destructive aftermaths of unregulated rejection sensitivity.