Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Human well-being isn’t solely determined by objective circumstances but also by subjective perceptions of those circumstances. Two key concepts in understanding this are relative and prolonged deprivation. While both involve a perceived lack, they differ significantly in their origins and impacts. Relative deprivation, a cornerstone of social comparison theory, arises from the perception of being disadvantaged compared to others or past experiences. Prolonged deprivation, conversely, refers to the sustained lack of basic needs over an extended period. This answer will delineate these two forms of deprivation and delve into the psychological ramifications of relative deprivation, a potent driver of social unrest and individual distress.
Defining Relative and Prolonged Deprivation
Relative Deprivation: This is the experience of being deprived of something one thinks they are entitled to. It’s not about objective poverty, but about a perceived gap between what one has and what one believes they *should* have, often based on comparisons with others (reference groups). This perception can lead to feelings of anger, frustration, and resentment.
Prolonged Deprivation: This refers to the sustained lack of essential resources – food, shelter, safety, etc. – over a significant period. It’s a more objective condition, though subjective experience still plays a role. The consequences are primarily physiological and survival-oriented, though psychological effects are also significant.
Differentiating Relative and Prolonged Deprivation
The key difference lies in the basis of the deprivation. Relative deprivation is based on *comparison*, while prolonged deprivation is based on *absolute lack*. Relative deprivation can occur even in affluent societies, while prolonged deprivation is more common in contexts of widespread poverty or disaster. The psychological focus also differs; relative deprivation centers on feelings of injustice and inequality, while prolonged deprivation often leads to hopelessness and learned helplessness.
| Feature | Relative Deprivation | Prolonged Deprivation |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Perceived inequality; social comparison | Sustained lack of basic needs |
| Nature | Subjective; perceptual | Objective, though subjective experience matters |
| Context | Can occur in any society | More common in poverty or disaster |
| Psychological Focus | Injustice, anger, resentment | Hopelessness, learned helplessness |
Psychological Consequences of Relative Deprivation
1. Increased Aggression and Hostility
When individuals perceive themselves as unfairly disadvantaged, it can trigger aggressive impulses. Frustration-Aggression Theory suggests that frustration, stemming from blocked goals (in this case, perceived entitlement), leads to aggression. This can manifest as verbal hostility, prejudice, or even violent behavior.
2. Social Unrest and Collective Action
Relative deprivation is a powerful predictor of social unrest. When a significant portion of a population feels relatively deprived, it can lead to collective action, such as protests, riots, and revolutions. The Arab Spring uprisings (2010-2012) are often cited as examples where feelings of economic inequality and political marginalization fueled widespread protests.
3. Reduced Self-Esteem and Increased Depression
Constantly comparing oneself to others and feeling inadequate can erode self-esteem and contribute to feelings of depression. Individuals may internalize the perceived deprivation, leading to self-blame and a sense of worthlessness.
4. Increased Prejudice and Discrimination
Relative deprivation can also fuel prejudice and discrimination. Individuals may scapegoat other groups, blaming them for their own perceived disadvantages. This can lead to increased intergroup conflict and hostility. For example, economic downturns have been linked to increased xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiment.
5. Cognitive Dissonance and Rationalization
Individuals experiencing relative deprivation may attempt to reduce cognitive dissonance by rationalizing their situation or devaluing the possessions of others. This can involve downplaying the importance of what they lack or exaggerating the flaws of those they compare themselves to.
6. Changes in Political Attitudes
Perceptions of relative deprivation can significantly alter political attitudes, leading to increased support for radical or populist movements that promise to address perceived injustices. This is often seen in situations where established political systems are seen as failing to deliver on their promises.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both relative and prolonged deprivation represent forms of lacking, their origins and psychological consequences diverge significantly. Relative deprivation, rooted in social comparison and perceived injustice, is a potent force driving aggression, social unrest, and individual distress. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing social inequalities and promoting psychological well-being. Future research should focus on identifying effective interventions to mitigate the negative effects of relative deprivation and foster a sense of fairness and equity within societies.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.