The 4 Faces of Deservingness

"For example, research shows that our belief in a just world, or seeing the world as a predictable place where people get what they deserve, can hurt self-esteem in the face of uncontrollable negative events, such as losing a job you worked hard for because the company hit a financial hurdle beyond your control. How we interpret deservingness can contribute to negative thinking about oneself and others, such as feeling angry toward the company for deserting you"

"Deservingness beliefs can also encourage us to seek closure, even if in a self-defeating way. For example, people who experience fear of missing out (FOMO) tend to make more social comparisons on social media, which can fuel uncertainty about whether they are good enough. In this case, overthinking about deservingness can lead to falsely concluding that the reason you missed out on a social event was because you weren't likable enough to be invited."

Beliefs about deservingness shape how people interpret outcomes, attribute blame, and regulate self-worth. A belief in a just world can hurt self-esteem when negative events are uncontrollable, such as job loss due to company financial problems. Deservingness interpretations can produce anger toward others or self-blame about personal inadequacy. Seeking closure through social comparison can worsen uncertainty and fuel fear of missing out. Deservingness assessments can reveal exploitation but can also keep people in toxic relationships through feelings of unworthiness or obligation. Connecting with others and reframing deservingness can help balance acceptance of circumstances and advocacy for better conditions.

Read at Psychology Today