Feeling mentally weaker around mentally weak people and stronger around stronger people can be attributed to various psychological and social factors. Here are some reasons why this might occur:
Social comparison: People often engage in social comparison, where they evaluate themselves in relation to others. When you interact with mentally weak individuals, you might unconsciously compare yourself to them, leading to a perceived sense of strength in comparison. On the other hand, when you interact with mentally strong individuals, you may feel less confident or capable by comparison.
Emotional contagion: Emotions can be contagious, and spending time with mentally weak individuals who are negative, anxious, or self-doubting might influence your mood and mindset. Conversely, being around mentally strong people who are positive, confident, and resilient may uplift your spirits and make you feel stronger.
Self-perception: Your self-perception can influence how you perceive others and, in turn, how you feel about yourself. If you see yourself as mentally strong, you might feel more secure and confident around people you perceive as weaker. Similarly, being around mentally strong individuals may validate and reinforce your self-perception of strength.
Support and validation: Being around mentally strong people can provide a sense of support, encouragement, and validation. This support can bolster your confidence and make you feel stronger. Conversely, being around mentally weak individuals who may not provide the same level of support might lead to feelings of weakness.
Communication and engagement: Interactions with mentally strong people might involve engaging in intellectually stimulating conversations and problem-solving activities. Such interactions can challenge and enhance your mental faculties, making you feel stronger mentally. On the other hand, interactions with mentally weak individuals might not offer the same mental stimulation.
Empowerment and inspiration: Mentally strong people often exhibit traits like resilience, determination, and self-assuredness. Observing these qualities can inspire and empower you to develop similar strengths and overcome challenges.
Influence of behavior and attitude: The behavior and attitudes of those around us can influence our own behavior and attitude. If you witness mentally strong individuals handling situations with confidence and composure, you may feel more equipped to do the same. Conversely, witnessing mentally weak behavior might inadvertently affect your own mindset.
It's important to recognize that feeling mentally stronger or weaker around certain individuals is a subjective experience and may not reflect your true abilities or potential. Surrounding yourself with supportive and positive individuals who encourage personal growth can be beneficial for building mental strength and resilience. Additionally, self-awareness and self-compassion are crucial in understanding your emotions and reactions in different social contexts.