Jealousy is an emotional response to perceived threats to one's relationship with another person. It is often characterized by feelings of fear, anger, and sadness, which can manifest in various ways. Jealousy during adolescence may indicate future problems if it becomes maladaptive and leads to unrealistic expectations of exclusivity in adult relationships. These unhealthy beliefs about love and connection can cause significant harm to partnerships and prevent individuals from forming satisfying bonds.
In adolescence, jealousy can develop for various reasons.
It may arise from insecurities stemming from past experiences, such as childhood neglect or abuse. It can also result from social pressure, peer competition, or lack of self-confidence. In addition, teenagers may be more likely to become jealous when they have limited experience with intimacy and are still learning how to navigate romantic interactions. As a result, their views of what constitutes "normal" behavior within a relationship can be skewed. This can lead to unrealistic expectations that their partner will always fulfill all their needs, leading to resentment and dissatisfaction later in life.
One study found that those who experienced frequent jealousy during adolescence were more likely to form unstable relationships in adulthood. They also reported lower levels of satisfaction and commitment in their current relationships. Another study showed that young women who felt excessively jealous of their partners tended to idealize them too much, expecting perfection from them while simultaneously blaming any shortcomings on themselves. They were less able to communicate openly and honestly, which could create tension and conflict.
Jealousy can manifest physically as well, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. It is often accompanied by feelings of fear and anger, which can escalate into aggression or violence if not addressed. Adults who struggle with maladaptive jealousy patterns may seek validation through controlling behaviors, including stalking, possessiveness, and isolation. These actions can damage the trust and security necessary for healthy relationships.
The key to preventing maladaptive jealousy patterns is to address underlying insecurities early on. Therapy can help individuals explore and process these feelings and develop more adaptive ways of coping with perceived threats. Education about healthy relationships can also provide important skills for communicating effectively and setting appropriate boundaries. Parents should model healthy communication styles and encourage their teenagers to have open conversations about their emotions.
How do adolescent jealousy patterns forecast maladaptive expectations of exclusivity in adulthood, and what are the relational risks?
Adolescent jealousy often predicts adult experiences of possessiveness, which can lead to conflicts within intimate relationships. Jealousy may cause individuals to become overly dependent on their partners, feel possessive about them, and be more likely to compare themselves with others. This can create tension between couples and increase the risk of relationship dissolution (Glenn et al. , 2017).