Why Are Some People So Mean?

We all know someone who is mean and hurtful without a reason. Their presence makes us uneasy and keeps us on edge because we never know when they might twist things around. This person may not be someone you choose to be around, but work, family, or community may require you to interact with them. And such interactions may make you feel frustrated or emotional.

Ever wondered how and why some individuals are so mean? In this blog, we will discuss some common reasons why some people tend to be so spiteful:

1. Insecurity: Insecurity is usually the primary reason people are mean and spiteful. Mean people belittle others as a defense mechanism to feel better about themselves and deflect attention from their vulnerabilities.
2. Trauma: People who have gone through trauma or abuse may react by being mean or aggressive. They do this to protect themselves from what they see as danger.
3. Envy: When people feel envious, they may treat those who are more successful, attractive, or accomplished in a mean way. This is often because they feel inadequate or are afraid of being overshadowed.
4. Learned Behavior: People can learn to be mean by watching or experiencing the same behavior from others. If someone grows up around people who think being mean is okay, they may also learn to act that way.
5. Low Self-Esteem: People with low self-esteem may engage in mean behavior to temporarily feel superior. They may put others down to elevate their self-worth.
6. Frustration: External stressors, such as work pressure, personal issues, or financial strain, can also lead to mean behavior. People may lash out when they are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated.

Coming across mean people is inevitable. But it's important to remember that those people are projecting their insecurities and frustration on you. Their opinion doesn't define you. To help you and your kids deal with mean people, Mary Beth has published a book, How to Take Care of Snake Bites. The book recognizes negative behaviors and helps kids understand how to deal with such people.