The article “Acceptance and Rejection: The Sweet and Bitter” published in the Science Daily provides an analytical perspective to the duality and seeming interconnection between acceptance and rejection. Drawing from the work of DeWall and Bushman, the article points out the fact that acceptance is the fundamental concept that holds humanity together. According to the article, human beings actually thrive on acceptance. It has defined, and still continues to define, the essence of human existence in many ways. While quoting DeWall, the article points out that the need for acceptance is informed by the primal characteristics that separate human beings from other animals. Features such as long childhoods, furless skin and weak claws make it difficult for individual human beings to survive in harsh environment on their own (Association for Psychological Science). As such acceptance into a social group provides the protection and safety that is critical for the survival of the race.
With regard to rejection, the article terms it as one of the leading cause of poor physical health, early death as well as low immune system. Rejection is also closely linked to poor mental health emanating from stress and depression. These symptoms are dangerous in that they lead to a self-destructive loop on the part of the victim hence resulting in premature death or miserable life. Farther, the consequences of exclusion seem to not only affect individuals but also the society at large. This, therefore, makes it a pertinent issue with regard to human existence. Finally, the article offers suggestions as to how rejected individuals can cope with their situations in order to avert slipping down the self-destructive route. These include seeking other sources of friendship and acceptance. Some of the hard feelings obtaining from rejection can also be dealt with by talking about them.
Work Cited
Association for Psychological Science. “Social Acceptance and Rejection: The Sweet and the Bitter.” Science Daily, 13 Aug. 2011. Web. 27 Apr. 2013.
