The term "in between" refers to a state of limbo where an individual is neither fully accepted nor rejected by a particular group or community. This situation can have profound emotional consequences that go beyond just feeling left out. Being perpetually in between acceptance and exclusion can lead to feelings of uncertainty, confusion, anxiety, loneliness, frustration, depression, and even resentment towards those who are either included or excluded. It can also create difficulties in establishing strong and meaningful connections with others, leading to isolation and detachment from society. In this essay, I will examine these effects and explore how they impact individuals' personal lives and social interactions.
One way that being in between acceptance and exclusion can affect individuals is by creating feelings of uncertainty about their place in the world. Individuals may feel like they do not belong anywhere and are constantly seeking validation or approval from others. They may struggle to find a sense of belonging and self-worth, as they feel like they do not fit into any existing groups or communities. This can result in low self-esteem, lack of confidence, and difficulty in setting clear boundaries and limits with others.
Individuals may question their own identity, beliefs, values, and behaviors, which can cause further distress and confusion.
Being in between acceptance and exclusion can also lead to feelings of confusion and disorientation. Individuals may struggle to understand why they are not fully accepted or rejected, leading to a sense of instability and unease. They may feel like they are living in a constant state of limbo, where nothing is certain and everything is up for negotiation. This can make it difficult to plan ahead, set goals, and take risks, as they never know what kind of reaction they might receive from others. It can also create a feeling of powerlessness, as individuals may feel like they have little control over their own destiny.
Another effect of perpetual "in betweenness" is anxiety and stress. Individuals may feel anxious about whether or not they will be accepted or rejected at any given moment, leading to heightened arousal and vigilance. They may become hypervigilant to social cues and reactions, always scanning the environment for signs of inclusion or exclusion. This can lead to physical symptoms such as tension, muscle tightening, and fatigue, as well as emotional symptoms such as irritability, anger, and fear. Individuals may experience feelings of being on edge and constantly preparing for rejection, which can take a toll on their overall mental health.
Loneliness and isolation are common outcomes of being in between acceptance and exclusion. Individuals may feel like they do not fit in with anyone, creating a sense of alienation and separation from society. They may withdraw socially, avoiding interactions and relationships altogether, or engage in superficial connections that lack depth and meaning. This can lead to further feelings of loneliness and disconnection, as individuals struggle to find genuine connection and intimacy with others.
Individuals may experience difficulty trusting others, as they may have been burned by past experiences where they were either included or excluded based on superficial factors.
Frustration is another emotion that can result from being perpetually in between acceptance and exclusion. Individuals may become frustrated by the constant need to negotiate their place in the world, feeling like they must constantly adapt and conform to different expectations. They may also feel resentful towards those who are accepted or rejected, blaming them for their own situation rather than taking responsibility for their actions. This can create difficulties in maintaining healthy relationships and communication with others, leading to increased conflict and misunderstanding.
Depression is a potential outcome of prolonged "in betweenness." Individuals may feel hopeless about their future prospects and struggles to find purpose and meaning in life. They may lose interest in activities and hobbies that used to bring joy, becoming listless and unmotivated. This can lead to decreased productivity and a general malaise, making it difficult to function effectively in daily life. Depression can also manifest physically, causing fatigue, insomnia, changes in appetite, and physical pain.
Being perpetually in between acceptance and exclusion can have profound emotional effects that impact individuals' personal lives and social interactions. It can lead to feelings of uncertainty, confusion, anxiety, loneliness, frustration, depression, and even resentment towards those who are either included or excluded. Individuals may struggle to establish strong connections with others, question their identity and beliefs, and experience physical symptoms such as tension and fatigue. Understanding these effects is important in helping individuals cope with this challenging situation and seek support when needed.
What are the emotional effects of being perpetually “between†acceptance and exclusion?
People who find themselves constantly oscillating between inclusion and rejection may experience a range of negative emotions such as anxiety, confusion, frustration, embarrassment, and loneliness. This can lead to feelings of unworthiness, self-doubt, and low self-esteem, which can have long-term consequences on one's mental health.