Internal Frustration: An Overview
Abstract
Frustration is a common emotional experience that is often associated with negative outcomes. This paper provides an overview of internal frustration, including its definition, causes, and consequences. We discuss the relationship between internal frustration and external frustration and suggest ways to manage internal frustration. Finally, implications of internal frustration for mental health, physical health, and social relationships are discussed.
Keywords: Internal Frustration, External Frustration, Mental Health, Physical Health, Social Relationships
Introduction
Frustration is a common experience that is defined as a negative emotional state experienced when obstacles interfere with the achievement of desired goals (Barrios & Petruzzello, 2015). Internal frustration occurs when a person’s own thoughts and behaviors impede their progress towards reaching their desired goals. It differs from external frustration, which occurs when external factors, such as another person or an event, impede progress (Carver, 2014). Internal frustration can have significant consequences for mental health, physical health, and social relationships.
Causes of Internal Frustration
The causes of internal frustration are primarily related to an individual’s thoughts and behaviors. Examples of thoughts contributing to internal frustration include self-criticism and perfectionism (Flett, Blankstein, & Hewitt, 2002). Behaviors that can lead to internal frustration include procrastination, avoidance of difficult tasks, and self-sabotage (Flett et al., 2002).
Consequences of Internal Frustration
Internal frustration can lead to both short-term and long-term consequences. In the short-term, internal frustration can lead to feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, and hopelessness (Barrios & Petruzzello, 2015). In the long-term, internal frustration can lead to more serious mental health issues such as depression and anxiety (Carver, 2014). Additionally, internal frustration can have negative physical health consequences, such as increased stress and decreased immune functioning (Barrios & Petruzzello, 2015). Lastly, internal frustration can have negative implications for social relationships, as it can lead to decreased social support and difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships (Carver, 2014).
Managing Internal Frustration
There are a variety of strategies to manage internal frustration, such as problem-solving, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation techniques (Barrios & Petruzzello, 2015). Problem-solving involves identifying and solving the problem that is leading to the internal frustration (Flett et al., 2002). Cognitive restructuring involves changing the way an individual thinks about a situation, such as reframing a situation in a more positive light (Flett et al., 2002). Lastly, relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and frustration, such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness (Barrios & Petruzzello, 2015).
Conclusion
Internal frustration is an experience that is often associated with negative outcomes. This paper provided an overview of internal frustration, including its definition, causes, and consequences. We discussed the relationship between internal frustration and external frustration and suggested ways to manage internal frustration. Lastly, implications of internal frustration for mental health, physical health, and social relationships were discussed.
References
Barrios, V., & Petruzzello, S. J. (2015). Understanding and managing frustration. In A. M. Krentzman (Ed.), Handbook of positive psychology (2nd ed., pp. 367-383). Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.
Carver, C. S. (2014). Self-regulation of action and affect. In M. R. Leary & J. P. Tangney (Eds.), Handbook of self and identity (2nd ed., pp. 535-558). New York, NY: Guilford Press.
Flett, G. L., Blankstein, K. R., & Hewitt, P. L. (2002). Perfectionism, frustration, and psychological disturbance. Personality and Individual Differences, 33, 595-606. doi:10.1016/S0191-8869(01)00239-9