Revenge is an unhealthy psychological phenomenon that not only harms the person being retaliated against but also harms oneself. On the other hand, revenge is also a psychological defense mechanism, an instinctive self-protection mechanism for dealing with adverse external situations. Therefore, it can be seen as an abnormal form of self-protection. When the avenger feels the pain of the other party or suffers some kind of damage, they feel a sense of pleasure, which is the mentality of revenge.
So, how does the desire for revenge arise?
First, from a personality perspective
Some suspicious people are prone to revenge. When conflicts arise, they easily assume the fault lies with others. Sensitive individuals, when in conflict, tend to go to extremes, blaming others without acknowledging their own mistakes, and believing that the other party deserves it.
Second, family environment analysis
Parental education is an authority. A single word from them can easily make a child feel discouraged and without psychological comfort, leading to a vengeful mentality as they grow up. If parents themselves have a vengeful mentality, children, influenced by the family, are also likely to learn and imitate this behavior.
Third, unfair treatment leads to psychological pressure
When experiencing significant life setbacks, such as humiliation or injustice, the negative emotions in one's heart cannot be released or are suppressed for a long time. Once an opportunity arises, these emotions may erupt, leading to harmful actions and revenge.
Fourth, copying others' methods of revenge
Upon entering society, one encounters various schemes and conspiracies. Learning from others' acts of revenge, because others have treated them with revenge, they may also adopt this method on weaker individuals to achieve psychological balance.
Fifth, negative beliefs lead to revenge
Psychologists point out that when one feels unfairly treated and their interests are harmed, it is easier to generate negative emotions. These emotions can only be soothed when the other party also suffers similar harm.
So, how can the desire for revenge be alleviated?
First, acknowledge the desire for revenge
When treated unfairly, it is normal to have a desire for revenge, as it is a natural emotion arising from a highly emotional state.
Second, what else can be done besides revenge
When treated unfairly, anxiety, humiliation, and unease are hard to eliminate and calm. However, these emotions can significantly impact one's mental health. The person involved should consider how to eliminate these negative emotions, rather than resorting to the same harmful actions, to prevent further psychological damage.
Third, correct one's behavior
If one adopts the same methods as the other party to seek revenge, it might temporarily alleviate anxiety and humiliation, but it could also turn one into the same kind of person. So, one must constantly question themselves, correct their behavior, elevate their personality, and improve their shortcomings. Perhaps forgiveness and letting go are the choices one can make, allowing one's path to become broader.
In summary, we understand how the desire for revenge arises and how to alleviate it. When treated unfairly, negative emotions such as anxiety and humiliation can arise. If not addressed in time, they may cause greater harm to oneself. Therefore, one should adjust themselves promptly to prevent any irrational actions that could lead to more severe consequences.
