A writer for The Guardian argues that we live “in the age of envy,” a time in which comparisons with others, and the desire for what others appear to have, are prompted by the never-ending stream of social media which permeates our daily existence. Experts typically associate envy with a deep-seeded insecurity that prompts feelings of inadequacy and weakness in the face of others’ success. Distinct from merely being competitive or fearing the potential loss of what one already possesses to others (“jealousy”), some commentators have used the term “menvy” to capture the quality of envy unique to adult men, a cluster of factors associated with damaged self-esteem including delight in others’ misfortune and shame-based social isolation — often from potential supports. At the core of envy is the psychological experience of frustration, a powerful emotional reality that may be suppressed or denied — especially by men. Unprocessed frustration can give rise to chronic psychological and interpersonal issues including “ressentiment,” i.e., “the reassignment of the pain that accompanies our sense of failure or inferiority onto a scapegoat.” In the next virtual meeting of the Men’s Group Seminar on Saturday, January 2, 2021 (10:15 AM to 11:30 AM), we will explore the nature of envy, focusing on the distinctive elements of male envy, and consider ways to cope with and overcome it.

*Registration Directions: If you would like to attend the next virtual meeting of the Men’s Group Seminar on Saturday, January 2, 2021, 10:15 to 11:30 AM, please RSVP to me at 949-338-4388 or jt@jamestobinphd.com no later than Thursday, December 31, 2020.  The fee is $25.00 (payable before entering the virtual meeting) and informed consent for participation in this telehealth event must be completed prior to the seminar. Please note that the Men’s Group Seminar is psychoeducational in nature, not therapeutic, and does not constitute psychotherapy or counseling.