Psychological Responses to Exclusion: Examining Rejection Sensitivity Pattern in Asian and European Patients Population - Abstract
Background: This article aims to investigate and compare rejection sensitivity patterns in patients from Asian and European cultural backgrounds who
have experienced social exclusion. Rejection sensitivity, a psychological construct characterized by heightened responsiveness to perceived rejection, is often
associated with negative psychological outcomes. By examining the experiences of exclusion and their impact on rejection sensitivity in patient populations
across diverse cultural contexts, this study seeks to shed light on the interplay between socio-cultural influences and psychological and physiological responses
to social exclusion.
Methods: The clinical trial included 119 young Asian patients aged 16-24 years who suffered from a history of exclusion and long-term difficulties in
relationships, with a diagnosis of mental disorders, and 45 healthy subjects. The results were compared with those for a group of European patients in a similar
age group.
The study employed a cross-cultural comparative approach, utilizing quantitative and qualitative exploration to examine rejection sensitivity in patients
with experiences of exclusion in Asia and Europe. Through this investigation, the study intends to discern potential cultural variations in the ways individuals from
different cultural backgrounds interpret and respond to exclusion, as well as its implications for their psychological well-being.
Results: In both European and Asian populations, respondents were identified as suffering from a syndrome of rejection sensitivity, a large number of
depressive symptoms, and low quality of current social relationships. Both groups reported similar mechanisms of defensive and self-sabotage behaviors,
including: self-isolation, satisfying the needs of others, anger, addictions, and physiological symptoms characterized by high systolic blood pressure, referred
to as CHAT (inflated systolic heart pressure amplitude).
Discussion: The findings of this study showed the potential to confirm culturally sensitive interventions and therapeutic strategies tailored to address
rejection sensitivity in patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, this comparative analysis yields valuable insights into the intersections of culture,
social experiences, and psychological responses, contributing to a deeper understanding of the impact of exclusion on individuals’ mental health across varied
cultural contexts.