People with low self-esteem end up regretting sacrifices they make, either big or small, in relationships because they do not feel appreciated or supported by their partner, a new study has found.
Low self-esteem partners can feel vulnerable in their relationship, including feeling insecure about their partner’s support and love. In a series of studies, social psychologists in the Netherlands show that people with low self-esteem end up regretting sacrifices they make in relationships because they do not feel appreciated or supported by their partner. The results appear in the journal, Social Psychological and Personality Science.
“Low self-esteem partners desire strong interpersonal connections like everybody else but they are very sensitive to rejection and interpersonal threats,” says lead author Francesca Righetti (VU University Amsterdam). “They underestimate how positively they are viewed by their partner and how much their partner loves and cares for them. They also tend to think that others are not there for them, not available to provide support when in need.”
These doubts can influence mood, stress, and life satisfaction.
Righetti’s advice, “If you have a low self-esteem partner, try to show much appreciation and gratitude after s/he sacrificed. S/he needs reassurance that you have noticed and appreciated the efforts. If you are low in self-esteem yourself, try not to assume that your partner did not notice what you have done for the relationship. Perhaps, talk together (in a constructive manner!) about what you have done for him/her and what it has entailed for you.”
S.O.Z