Resentment

Facial expressions of bitterness

Resentment (also called ranklement or bitterness) is a complex, multilayered emotion[1] that has been described as a mixture of disappointment, disgust and anger.[2] Other psychologists consider it a mood[3] or as a secondary emotion (including cognitive elements) that can be elicited in the face of insult or injury.[4]

Inherent in resentment is a perception of unfairness (i.e. from trivial to very serious), and a generalized defense against unfair situations (e.g. relationships or unfavourable circumstances).[3]

The word originates from French "ressentir", re-, intensive prefix, and sentir "to feel"; from the Latin "sentire". The English word has become synonymous with anger, spite, and holding a grudge.

  1. ^ D M Marino ed., On Resentment (2013) p. 301-3
  2. ^ TenHouten, W. D. (2007). General Theory of Emotions and Social Life. Routledge.
  3. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference Stosny was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  4. ^ W TenHouten, Emotion and Reason (2014) p. 20

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