What is the psychological term for the feeling of being worse off than others when making comparisons?

The term "Relative Deprivation" refers to the feeling of being worse off than others when comparing oneself to different social groups or individuals. This concept helps explain the emotional and psychological responses that arise from such comparisons. When people perceive that they are lacking in comparison to others—whether in terms of wealth, status, opportunities, or other social resources—they may experience feelings of injustice, resentment, or dissatisfaction.

This feeling can lead to various social behaviors, such as anger toward perceived disparities or efforts to improve one's own situation. It is particularly relevant in discussions about social inequality, where individuals or groups might feel deprived in relation to others with more resources or advantages. Understanding this concept is essential for analyzing social dynamics and individual behaviors in various contexts, such as economic disparities or social status.

In contrast, social comparison involves the general process of comparing oneself to others, which can occur without the negative feeling of deprivation. Dispositional attribution focuses on concluding that a person's behavior is due to their personality or character rather than situational factors. Empathy revolves around the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, which does not specifically relate to feelings of deprivation in comparison to others.