Experiencing different emotional reactions to harm directed at others versus harm directed at yourself can be influenced by various psychological factors. Here are some reasons why you might feel anger more intensely when witnessing harm to others but not as much when experiencing harm yourself:
Empathy and compassion: You may have a strong sense of empathy and compassion for others, allowing you to feel their pain and suffering deeply. When you see someone else being hurt, you can put yourself in their shoes, leading to a more intense emotional response.
Protective instincts: It's common for individuals to feel protective of others, especially those they care about or perceive as vulnerable. This protective instinct can trigger a stronger anger response when witnessing harm done to others.
Altruistic anger: Altruistic anger refers to feeling angry on behalf of others to address injustices or protect their well-being. It's a form of anger driven by a sense of fairness and a desire to stand up for those who cannot defend themselves.
Self-preservation and survival: When you experience harm yourself, your emotional response may be more focused on immediate self-preservation and safety rather than anger. In such situations, the fight-or-flight response may take precedence over the anger response.
Empathy gap: The "empathy gap" is a cognitive bias where individuals have difficulty empathizing with their future selves or imagining how they will feel in a certain situation. When you are directly hurt, you may not fully understand or anticipate the emotional impact, leading to a diminished anger response.
Coping mechanisms: Over time, individuals develop coping mechanisms to deal with personal pain and distress. These mechanisms may suppress or minimize the intensity of anger when harm is directed at themselves.
Social and cultural conditioning: Societal norms and cultural values can influence emotional responses to harm. Some cultures may encourage more stoic or reserved reactions to personal harm while promoting stronger reactions to injustices in the broader community.
It's important to note that individual differences and personal experiences can also play a significant role in shaping emotional responses. If you find that your emotional reactions are causing distress or impacting your well-being, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. They can help you explore and understand your emotions and provide guidance on coping strategies that align with your values and personal growth.