The Art of Manliness: Ouch! That Stings! Why Rejection Hurts So Much (And How to Deal With It) (Ep. 1,033)

Who it's for

People who are very sensitive to rejection often feel that their reaction is out of proportion and that something is wrong with them.

Feelings it meets

• Rejection Sensitivity
• Rejection

What it is

Social psychologist Mark Leary, a leading researcher on rejection, explains what rejection actually is (a sense that others don't value a relationship with you as much as you'd like), why it hurts so much, and how the brain's "sociometer" tracks acceptance.

Where to find it

Art of Manliness website (with transcript), Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other podcast apps.

Before you start

Heads up: Brief discussion of school shootings.

Age: Not rated (suggested 15+)

For nonconformity the world whips you with its displeasure.Ralph Waldo Emerson, Essays: First Series, “Self-Reliance”