Admiration is a feeling of respect for someone who has achieved something impressive or extraordinary. It can be directed toward individuals, groups, places, objects, events, and ideas. Admiration mismatches occur when there are differences between one's own and another person's views regarding admirable characteristics. Dissatisfaction occurs when an individual feels unhappy with their current situation or relationship. In this article, I will explore how admiration mismatches can predict dissatisfaction in various scenarios such as romantic relationships, friendships, professional settings, and social media platforms.
In a romantic relationship, admiration mismatches can lead to dissatisfaction when one partner holds higher standards than the other.
If one partner values physical appearance while the other prioritizes kindness, it may create tension and frustration. This could result in arguments and breakups. Similarly, admiration mismatches due to differing political beliefs, religious practices, and cultural backgrounds can also cause discontentment. In friendships, admiration mismatches can arise from divergent interests, lifestyles, and personalities. If one friend prefers spontaneous adventures while the other values routine and stability, it can lead to resentment and distance. Professionally, admiration mismatches can stem from unequal work ethic, competitiveness, and communication styles. If one employee believes in collaboration while the other favors individual achievement, it can lead to conflicts and reduced productivity.
On social media, admiration mismatches can result from different content preferences, engagement levels, and user demographics. When two people follow each other but have opposing perspectives, they may unfollow each other, leading to increased polarization.
To prevent admiration mismatches and promote satisfaction, individuals must actively seek out partners, friends, colleagues, and followers who share similar values and interests. They should be open-minded, listen attentively, and communicate effectively to resolve differences.
They can learn new skills or hobbies to expand their horizons and appreciate diverse perspectives. By embracing mutual respect and understanding, everyone can build stronger relationships based on shared admiration.
How do admiration mismatches predict dissatisfaction?
The literature has demonstrated that individuals who hold high standards for their partner but perceive their partner's level of adoration as lacking may experience increased levels of dissatisfaction compared to those whose expectations match with what they receive from their partner (Murray & Holmes, 2014). This phenomenon is referred to as "admiration discrepancy" and can be influenced by both cultural and interpersonal factors.