Psychology behind Entitlement Complex

In the fast-paced technology and hyper-individualistic environment, the concept of entitlement has come to everyone’s notice more prominently than ever. From high-pressure workplace settings to disturbed interpersonal relationships, a sense of entitlement can create conflicts, resentment, and unrealistic expectations. It is associated with broader psychological concepts that include narcissism, dark triads and learned helplessness. This article will explore the origins of the entitlement complex, its effects on individuals and communities, and alternatives to overcoming the sense of entitlement to live a balanced and harmonious lifestyle. 

Kabir Singh shows a strong sense of entitlement, especially in his relationships. He believes Preeti belongs to him and struggles to accept her choices. When things don’t go his way, he reacts with anger and self-destruction. He also expects respect and dominance, refusing to compromise or handle rejection. His talent and privileged background make him feel he deserves success and love without changing his behavior.

What is an Entitlement Complex? 

An entitlement complex is referred to as a deeply ingrained belief that an individual deserves exceptional recognition, privileges, and success without any considerable effort. Individuals with an entitlement complex often believe that the rules may apply to everyone else but them and frequently experience frustration when their expectations do not meet reality. A few examples of entitlement could be felt above social norms, like not following traffic rules and arguing with the authorities, expecting rewards, recognition, and promotion without consistent job performance, or resenting others who receive rewards or attention. In modern society, the feelings of entitlement are often fueled by technological and cultural adaptations. Consumer culture, social media consumption, and the need for instant gratification may reinforce the idea of gaining effortless and immediate happiness and success. 

Psychological Roots of Entitlement: 

Narcissism & Entitlement Complex 

Research studies have found that the sense of entitlement complex is strongly associated with narcissistic personality traits of an individual. Characteristics like the need for admiration, grandiosity, and lack of empathy for others among narcissists very well align with the mindset of an individual with an entitlement complex. They often believe they deserve special treatment and are inherently superior to others in social settings. 

Learned Helplessness

The roots of the entitlement complex can be observed in learned helplessness, where individuals develop an unconscious, unrealistic expectation that everyone around them will always accommodate their needs. Such individuals grow up in a protective and nurturing environment where they are constantly rescued from failure, which results in a lack of personal responsibilities and a belief that the world always “owes” them something. 

Theory of Social Learning 

Social Learning theory proposed by Albert Bandura suggested that individuals learn about attitudes and behaviours through observations and experiences of their social environment. Individuals may develop an entitlement mindset to resolve the discomfort of their internal world by blaming external circumstances or other individuals around them instead of acknowledging their shortcomings. 

Role of Parenting and Childhood Upbringing 

One of the most significant contributors to entitlement is how individuals are raised by their parents, which shapes their attitudes toward efforts, rewards, responsibilities, and social norms. It is observed that parental overindulgence in shielding them from failure or disappointment, catering to their needs and expectations, and rewarding them for minimal effort can hinder a child’s ability to develop accountability, responsibility, and resilience.

Excessively pampered children may struggle to accept that they are not the centre of attention in other social situations. Such individuals often lack a sense of boundary or discipline, leading to their inability to handle criticism, rejection, or setbacks in adulthood. Sometimes, children may also mirror their parents’ attitudes and exhibit entitled behaviour, such as complaining about unfair situations and demanding exceptional treatment. It becomes difficult for individuals to understand that entitled behaviour is socially unacceptable because they learn the same from their primary caregivers. 

Impact of Entitlement Complex on various domains of life 

An individual with an entitlement mindset might face severe repercussions in various aspects of their life including professional growth in their personal relationships and overall mental well-being.

They may often struggle in their professional life and workplace settings where hard work, consistent job performance and collaborative behaviour is essential. They may struggle with working in a team and authorities and be sensitive to criticism. Individuals with entitlement complexes often face frequent dissatisfaction and conflicts with their family, friends or partners due to unrealistic expectations leading to chronic unhappiness and frustration. This may increase their susceptibility to anxiety and stress because reality often falls short for such individuals. Their behaviour can create resentment among professional circles and social communities because entitled individuals often struggle to contribute meaningfully to society. 

How can one overcome the Entitlement Complex? 

Developing accountability and gratitude 

• Taking responsibility for their actions 
• Recognising that rewards are always earned and not owned 
• Mindful reflection and journaling to cultivate a healthier perspective towards life
• Practicing gratitude 

Encouraging Self-Awareness and Empathy 

• Obtaining honest feedback from others. 
• Challenging personal attitudes and expectations. 
• Challenging irrational thoughts of superiority or victimhood 
• Empathy counters entitlement, as it will encourage the taking of others’ perspectives.

One can understand struggles and exertions in other people’s lives, which will make one become humble and sense fairness. 

Discipline and Resilience 

Building resilience is necessary to overcome the sense of entitlement. Tolerance of setbacks, delays, and hardships helps to strengthen one’s ability to tackle life’s adversities. Some strategies include: 

• Setting realistic goals and working toward them. 
• Accepting constructive criticism. 
• Cultivating patience and perseverance.

Conclusion: 

The entitlement complex is a burgeoning issue in contemporary society, arising from psychological reasons, upbringing, and cultural background. Although temporary comfort may arise from entitlement, it leads to dissatisfaction, broken relationships, and professional problems in the long run. It is not just the individual’s effort but a collective responsibility to address entitlement. By developing a sense of gratitude, self-awareness, empathy, and resilience, one may change his mind and lead a more balanced, fulfilling life.