Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria is the tendency for people to expect, perceive, and/or overreact to rejection. Individuals who feel socially rejected and have a negative view of ambiguous social interactions are typically identified as sensitive to rejection.
These negative thoughts can have lasting impacts. Individuals often experience depression, emotional withdrawal, dejection, aggression, etc. when ruminating on negative thoughts. They can also go on to develop a fear of failure or feelings of insecurity by anticipating social rejection.
Behaviors that frequently accompany rejection sensitivity are avoidance, aggression, denial of the problem, disruptive behaviors, oppositional behaviors, etc. Some people may become avoidant to social interactions if they are constantly anticipating rejection. They may act ‘difficult’ or altogether evade the chance that they could be rejected. Aggression is often seen proactively and reactively. Proactive aggression is when someone behaves aggressively prior to the social interaction because they expect rejection. Reactive aggression is when an individual reacts aggressively after they have perceived the rejection. Further, if a person feels rejected they may become disruptive and develop oppositional behaviors.
Symptoms
- Hostility
- Jealousy
- Emotional withdrawal
- Dejection
- Fear of failure
- Aggression
- Frustration or irritation at the situation
- Feelings of insecurity in their relationships
Behaviors
- Avoidant
- Aggressive
- Denial of the problem
- Disruptive behaviors
- Oppositional behaviors
Why does Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria impact children with ADHD?
ADHD often gives validation to the fear of or the perception of rejection. Think about how often your son or daughter is in trouble…especially due to their ADHD. Do you make comments such as:
- Why are you late?
- Why aren’t you ready
- Why did you not do your homework?
- Why didn’t you listen?
- Why isn’t your room clean?
- Why can’t you do it right?
Do you see a theme? Anytime you point out what a child has done wrong, is an opportunity for them to feel rejection. A child without ADHD is typically able to bounce back, do it differently next time and move from there.
An ADHD child hears the same phrases so often, that it literally creates a perception of failure. They have valid proof that they cannot do it (or anything) right!
If you find your child is explosive, angry, or you just feel like things are difficult, counseling may be the right next step. Talk to our experts!