Knowra Jealousy Jealousy Jealousy is an emotion involving fear that a rival will take a valued relationship or possession. It often includes suspicion, insecurity, and resentment.
Social comparison theory : A theory that people evaluate themselves by comparing their abilities, opinions, or outcomes with those of others. A rival can become a salient comparison point, intensifying perceived inadequacy and threat.
Envy : An emotion arising from wanting an advantage, possession, or quality that another person has. Envy concerns another's advantage; jealousy centers on a threatened valued bond or possession.
Romantic jealousy : Jealousy arising from a perceived threat to a romantic relationship by a potential rival. This is the most familiar form, centered on a partner's attention or commitment.
Relationship conflict : A disagreement or struggle between people whose goals, expectations, or interpretations differ. Accusations and defensive reactions can turn perceived threat into recurring disputes.
Evolutionary psychology of jealousy : The study of how selection pressures may have shaped jealousy and its differences across contexts. Evolutionary accounts propose functions for jealousy, but their claims and evidence remain debated.
Attachment theory : A framework describing how early relationships shape patterns of closeness, security, and support across life. Attachment insecurity can heighten alarm about a partner's availability and commitment.
Suspicion : A belief that someone may be acting deceptively or harmfully, often without decisive evidence. Suspicion can accompany jealousy, but it is a judgment rather than the emotion itself.
Sibling rivalry : Competition or conflict between siblings, often over parental attention, status, or resources. A sibling may experience jealousy when parental care or recognition seems redirected.
Coercive control : A pattern of behavior that restricts another person's autonomy through intimidation, monitoring, isolation, or control. Jealousy can be used to justify restrictions, though it does not excuse controlling behavior.
Sex differences in jealousy : Research on whether and how jealousy patterns differ between sexes or genders. Findings depend on measures, culture, and sample; simple universal contrasts are disputed.
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