Responses to Betrayal and Its Resolution: The Role of Hatred and Reconciliation

Abstract

Background: The pervasive rise of hate in society is a pressing concern, with betrayal serving as a significant catalyst for its development. As a complex and multifaceted emotion, hate poses a significant obstacle to reconciliation. Despite its relevance, the intricate relationship between betrayal and the emergence of hate remains inadequately explored in current research. Aims & Objectives: This study aims to investigate the role of hate in the context of betrayal and explore potential strategies for its mitigation. It focuses on three main themes: (a) the distinctions and commonalities between interpersonal and institutional betrayal, including acts of commission and omission; (b) the relationship between betrayal and hate and their psychological impact; and (c) the effectiveness of restorative versus retributive strategies in mitigating betrayal and hate. Methods: This study adopts a three-phase explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, consisting of an online survey (quantitative) and semi-structured interviews (qualitative), integrated through side-by-side Joint Displays (Guetterman et al., 2015). Findings are discussed through the framework of Cognitive Dissonance Theory (Festinger, 1997). Main Findings: The study identified five key findings: a) Hate, as a dissonant emotion, triggers prolonged psychological tension and sustained internal conflict. b) Promoting peace at both individual and societal levels requires balancing the expression of hate, leading to harm and division, with its suppression, which may result in adverse health outcomes. c) Hate drives retributive efforts differently in personal versus institutional betrayals, distinguishing a more wounded "personal" hate and a more systemic "impersonal" hate. d) High levels of betrayal are linked to self-transcendence values that foster reconciliation, while intense hate aligns with self-enhancement values that promote retribution. e) In interpersonal contexts, acts of betrayal through commission elicit stronger feelings of hate than those of omission. However, when it comes to institutional betrayals, both types are equally condemned, as institutions are held to higher standards of accountability. Conclusions & Implications: Betrayal, identified as a complex and dissonant emotion linked to negative health outcomes, can lead to various forms of hate. Distinguishing between these different expressions of hate and finding an effective balance between their expression and suppression is critical due to their significant personal and societal implications, especially in a time marked by deep polarisation and divisions within our society.