A Social Psychological Evaluation on Envy

Abstract

Envy has serious effects on individuals in both intrapersonal and interpersonal levels. However, it has not attracted sufficient attention from the psychology literature in Turkey. This review aims to evaluate studies on envy from the social psychology perspective and to contribute to the literature related to this topic in Turkey. In the first part of the article, a definition for envy is provided on the basis of empirical studies and the difference between envy and jealousy, and envy and benign form of it (i.e. gıpta in Turkish) is discussed. The second part of the article reviews the effects of envy on daily life on the basis of empirical studies again. According to research, envy has a mediating role in the relationship between social media use and psychological well-being. In addition, envy, in organizational contexts, reduces constructive organizational behavior and increases destructive ones. The characteristics of organizational context, of employees and of the leader affect the level of envy experienced in the workplace. Finally, successful individuals feel discomfort and fear due to being the target of envy. The reactions to being at the target of envy differ according to personal, relational and cultural factors. As indicated by the research on this topic, envy affects human life in a broad context. More research needs to be done in Turkey on this emotion to have a more complete understanding.