Mean vs. Selfish

Attribute	Mean	Selfish
Definition	The average of a set of numbers	Concerned only with one's own interests
Behavior	Considerate of others	Acting in one's own self-interest
Impact on Others	Positive, promotes harmony	Negative, can harm relationships
Altruism	May exhibit altruistic behavior	Lacks altruistic tendencies

Definition

Mean and selfish are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Mean typically refers to someone who is unkind, cruel, or malicious in their actions or words towards others. On the other hand, selfish refers to someone who is primarily concerned with their own interests and needs, often at the expense of others. While both terms involve a lack of consideration for others, mean behavior is more focused on causing harm or hurt, whereas selfish behavior is more focused on prioritizing oneself.

Behavior

When it comes to behavior, mean individuals tend to exhibit actions that are intentionally hurtful or harmful towards others. This can manifest in various ways, such as name-calling, spreading rumors, or excluding others from social groups. Mean behavior is often driven by a desire to assert power or control over others, or to make oneself feel superior. On the other hand, selfish individuals are more likely to prioritize their own needs and desires above those of others. This can lead to behaviors such as hoarding resources, refusing to share, or manipulating others for personal gain.

Motivation

The motivation behind mean behavior is often rooted in feelings of insecurity, jealousy, or a desire for attention. Mean individuals may lash out at others as a way to cope with their own negative emotions or to boost their own self-esteem. In contrast, selfish behavior is typically driven by a sense of entitlement or a lack of empathy for others. Selfish individuals may believe that their needs are more important than those of others, leading them to prioritize themselves at the expense of those around them.

Impact on Others

Mean behavior can have a significant impact on the mental and emotional well-being of others. Being on the receiving end of mean comments or actions can lead to feelings of sadness, anger, or low self-esteem. Mean behavior can also create a toxic environment in which individuals feel unsafe or unwelcome. Selfish behavior, on the other hand, can lead to feelings of betrayal or resentment in others. When someone consistently puts their own needs above those of others, it can strain relationships and erode trust.

Relationships

In relationships, mean behavior can be particularly damaging. Constant criticism, belittling, or manipulation can erode the trust and intimacy between individuals. Mean behavior can create a cycle of negativity that is difficult to break, leading to resentment and conflict. Selfish behavior can also be detrimental to relationships, as it can create imbalance and resentment between partners. When one person consistently prioritizes their own needs over those of their partner, it can lead to feelings of neglect or abandonment.

Overcoming

Both mean and selfish behaviors can be challenging to overcome, but it is possible with self-awareness and effort. For mean individuals, it is important to recognize the impact of their actions on others and to work on developing empathy and compassion. This may involve seeking therapy or counseling to address underlying issues that contribute to mean behavior. For selfish individuals, it is important to practice empathy and consider the needs and feelings of others. This may involve setting boundaries, practicing gratitude, and seeking feedback from others to gain perspective.