Why does rejection affect us so deeply, and what can we do about it?

In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Professor of Psychology Mark Leary about the science of rejection, social belonging, and men’s mental health. Drawing on decades of research, Mark explains why our sensitivity to rejection is evolutionarily hardwired and how it continues to influence our self-esteem, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.

In this episode you will learn:

• Why humans, especially men, are deeply affected by rejection and social exclusion

• How rejection impacts self-esteem, mental health, and interpersonal relationships

• The role of societal expectations in discouraging men from expressing vulnerability or emotional pain

• Strategies for responding to rejection in healthier, more resilient ways

• Practical insights for building emotional resilience, confidence, and self-awareness

This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, emotional intelligence, resilience, social psychology, and relationships, offering research-backed guidance for understanding and coping with the impact of rejection.

Hear more from Mark:

Interpersonal Rejection Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Interpersonal-Rejection-Mark-R-Leary/dp/0195130146

Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/toward-less-egoic-world

Timestamps:

04:46: The Impact of Rejection 11:42: The Evolutionary Roots of Acceptance 15:11: Friendship Dynamics and Acceptance 18:57: Types of Rejection and Their Impact 26:00: Rejection Sensitivity: Genetic and Experiential Factors 31:14: Perception of Rejection: Overestimating and Underestimating 33:06: Understanding Sensitivity to Rejection 35:19: The Balance of Acceptance and Rejection 37:44: Reframing Rejection: A Positive Perspective 41:55: Navigating Romantic Rejection 46:09: The Complexity of Self-Worth and Rejection 49:11: Hurt Feelings: The Core of Rejection 51:25: Moving Forward After Rejection