Ostracism: Neuro-Physiological and Behavioral Consequences

Although the detrimental effects of physical injury and verbal aggression are widely recognized, the psychological distress elicited by an unreasonable indifference of others is far less visible. This negative social phenomenon—known as ostracism—occurs frequently in everyday interactions, including various forms of bullying and workplace mobbing. Because sociability and belongingness are fundamental human needs, when they are threatened by ostracism, individuals feel hurt and experience pain and alienation with severe psychological consequences. Drawing on an extensive body of empirical research, including experimental investigations using the Cyberball paradigm, this chapter provides an overview of the empirical evidence on the neurophysiological and behavioral consequences of ostracism, considering both those who are directly exposed to it and those who observe it. Finally, this chapter concludes by outlining ways to deal with this invisible and painful phenomenon.