Digital rejection is a growing phenomenon that has become more prevalent with the increase in online communication and relationship-building experiences. Michael Davis, CEO of MindfulBytes.io and a cyberpsychology researcher at Harvard’s Project Zero, has seen the emotional toll that digital disconnection and rejection can have, especially on younger users. Digital rejection refers to the experience of being ignored, excluded, or minimized through online interactions, such as unanswered messages or being left out of group threads. This often leads to feelings of being ‘left on read,’ which can be just as intense as being ignored in person.
A recent Instagram post by @latenightepiphanies_ highlighted subtle social slights that constitute digital rejection, such as getting few likes on a social media post or receiving dry email responses. This post sparked a debate among users, with some dismissing the idea while many others shared their own experiences of feeling confused or hurt by digital snubs. With the majority of communication and relationship-building experiences moving online, rejection has also evolved to take on a more subtle form, such as silence, no reply, or lack of engagement. These forms of exclusion can trigger emotional dysregulation and social anxiety, particularly in younger users.
Chris Manno, a relationship therapist, notes that digital rejection is not exclusive to Gen Alpha or Gen Z and can be seen among older adults as well. It is seen as a reaction to the hyper-dependence on technology in the modern world, leading individuals to resist constant connection and seek offline activities for grounding. Signs of digital rejection can include the anxiety triggered by constant notifications, tension in the body caused by technology, and an overall sense of feeling more grounded after stepping away from devices. Dr. Ashwini Nadkarni, a psychiatrist, explains that digital rejection can manifest in various ways, from being ghosted on a dating app to experiencing a sudden drop in online engagement.
Experts warn that the increased blending of digital and real-world identities can lead to amplified effects of subtle forms of digital rejection. The examples of feeling uncool compared to others, friends not engaging with content, or being ignored online may at first seem trivial but can have a lasting impact on self-worth and social interactions. Manno suggests that questioning one’s relationship with technology and modifying daily usage can lead to a calmer, more balanced, and connected experience. Ultimately, recognizing the signs of digital rejection and taking steps to address them can help individuals navigate the complexities of online communication and maintain healthy relationships in the digital age.
