Embitterment: The Nature of the Construct and Critical Issues in the Light of COVID-19.

Avinash De Sousa,Russell D’Souza

doi:10.3390/healthcare8030304

Abstract

Embitterment is a construct that is vast and complex and may be seen in a variety of conditions and circumstances. The following paper reviews the construct of embitterment and tries to explain the concept from a psychological perspective. It also looks at the role of embitterment in the genesis of psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, while focusing on the nature and factors needed to make a diagnosis of Posttraumatic Embitterment Disorder. Situations due to the current pandemic where embitterment may develop are discussed and this is coupled with a need to manage embitterment when it develops, as it may progress to a chronic condition where its effects may be both physical and psychological. Embitterment and its management from a psychotherapy standpoint is also discussed and the same is done from a workplace perspective.

Highlights

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused havoc all over the world since January 2020 and this has led to multiple mental health effects worldwide
The current paper explores the concept of EMB, the nature of the construct, and explains why it is important in light of the COVID-19 pandemic [4]
There have been many events during COVID-19 experienced by people that may haunt them for a lifetime and lead to feelings of EMB and prompt the development of Posttraumatic Embitterment Disorder (PTED) [19]

Summary

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused havoc all over the world since January 2020 and this has led to multiple mental health effects worldwide. EMB is an important facet of organizational psychology and workplace mental health when one believes that there is a chance that they may be cheated at the workplace, there is a chance of impending dismissal, and there is a chance that their promotion may be halted and rather, they may be devalued and demoted to a lower position. This comes up from the feeling of being devalued at the workplace.

History of the Concept and Its Evolution

Expanding the Concept of EMB

Distinguishing PTSD and PTED

EMB in the Context of COVID-19

Psychotherapeutic Management of PTED

Conclusions