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The Benefits of Social Rejection

Cliques appear to be part of the human condition. At best they form a support group. At worst, they become a confining box. Feeling alienated, rejected by your group? Don’t get stressed. You might be reaping the benefits of a strong sense of independence and a huge dose of imaginative thinking.

A new study by John Hopkins University professor Sharon Kim claims that “rejection confirms for independent people what they already feel about themselves, that they’re not like others. For such people, that distinction is a positive one leading them to greater creativity.” This means that if you are already independent, nerdy, artsy, or inventive, you will feel validated when you are rejected by the herd. However, if you value social inclusion and need to be well-liked, the study cites that your cognitive ability will be inhibited when you are excluded by the clique.

Kim explains that because nowadays people are attuned to the harmful effects of bullying, they tend to fear social rejection like a byproduct. While bullying is unacceptable on any terms, social rejection is different because it has a positive side when you become aware of it. You grow to be more self-reliant, reflecting inward to think more profoundly using creativity to compensate for companionship.

How to deal with social rejection
And if you belong to a clique which prides itself on excluding others, you just might be losing out on the most imaginative member who could contribute something amazing.
For more information on managing your stress and reclaiming your life read my book, Addicted to Stress: A Woman's 7 Step Program to Reclaim Joy and Spontaneity in Life. To listen to archived radio shows with guest experts visit Turn On Your Inner Light Radio Show




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Content copyright © 2013 by Debbie Mandel. All rights reserved.
This content was written by Debbie Mandel. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission. Contact Debbie Mandel for details.



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