ostracism

Ostracism is the practice of excluding or shunning an individual or group from social interactions, communities, or networks. In everyday use, it describes episodes in which someone is ignored or blocked from participation. In psychology, ostracism refers to a social phenomenon in which people feel rejected, leading to distress comparable to physical pain. The term originates from Ancient Greek ostracizein, to banish, derived from ostrakon, a potsherd on which Athenians wrote the name of a citizen to vote for exile. The Athenian constitutional practice known as ostracism could exile a citizen for ten years; it was intended as a check on potential tyranny rather than a criminal punishment.

In modern contexts, ostracism occurs in schools, workplaces, families, and online communities. It can be passive (being ignored) or active (being publicly excluded or shunned). It may be intentional or the result of social dynamics. Research in social psychology, including experiments on social exclusion, shows that ostracism triggers emotional pain, reduced self-esteem, and decreased sense of belonging. Prolonged ostracism is linked to adverse outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and health problems, though some individuals respond with resilience or increased social reengagement.

Mechanisms involve perceived threat to social belonging and self-worth. Coping strategies include seeking support, engaging in meaningful activities, and reappraising the situation. Efforts to reduce ostracism focus on inclusive practices, clear communication, and promoting prosocial norms in groups.