Final answer:
Rejection sensitivity is a psychological term that refers to the tendency of individuals to be overly sensitive to the possibility of being rejected by others. It can lead to social anxiety, feelings of shame and low self-worth, and difficulty forming and maintaining close relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rejection sensitivity is a psychological term that refers to the tendency of individuals to be overly sensitive to the possibility of being rejected by others. It involves a heightened fear of rejection and a strong emotional reaction to perceived rejection. People with high rejection sensitivity may avoid social situations, constantly seek reassurance from others, and have difficulty trusting others.
The way rejection sensitivity plays out can vary from person to person. Some individuals may become hyper-vigilant to signs of rejection, constantly interpreting neutral or ambiguous cues as evidence of rejection. They may also engage in protective behaviors, such as avoiding intimacy or preemptively ending relationships to avoid potential rejection.