Being criticised can hurt, but at least criticism gives you something to respond to. Someone tells you what they disliked, what went wrong or what they think you should change. Being ignored is different. There are no explanations, no answers and sometimes not even a clear indication of what happened. You are simply left wondering.
Psychology suggests that this uncertainty is one reason being ignored can feel more painful than criticism. Social rejection and ostracism can threaten fundamental psychological needs, including belonging, self-esteem, control and a sense that our existence matters.
