Understanding Emotional Transference: A Look at 麦麦’s Behavior

From a psychodynamic perspective, 麦麦 might not have fully learned how to effectively process his own pain and emotions. When a person lacks sufficient emotional tools to manage internal suffering and anxiety 🫨, they may unconsciously transfer this pain onto others. This behavior, known as emotional transference, occurs when an individual projects their negative emotions and suffering onto those around them, seeking external validation, understanding, and comfort.

麦麦 and the Pressure of Expectations

In 麦麦’s series of actions, this transference is particularly apparent. For instance, while sharing his experiences as a tour guide, he mentioned having “enormous pressure” when he didn’t allow others to spend money: “Everyone says I’m stingy and not giving them any money.” This indicates that he feels isolated in his experience of pressure and lacks support and understanding from others. In the latest episode, his attempts to make others uncomfortable during meals reflect his desire for 葛 and 刘 to feel the stress he once endured.

The Psychology of Schadenfreude

From the first episode to the latest, it seems that 麦麦 may subconsciously expect others to fail, particularly when he faces difficulties. This “schadenfreude” may temporarily boost his self-esteem or provide him with comfort in times of uncertainty. For instance, upon witnessing 葛 and 刘’s “mismanagement” of funds resulting in only $34 left, 麦麦 was likely reassured that his frugality was justified, insisting, “I left you over $50; I didn’t have $50, and now it’s not enough.” His tendency to overly emphasize his own contributions or “correct choices” serves as a method of maintaining his value within the group. By undermining others’ mistakes, he seeks self-affirmation and a sense of control, which is often linked to low self-esteem 🥺.

Low Self-Esteem and Its Impacts

This psychological state is not uncommon. The root cause of this behavior pattern is often low self-esteem. When someone possesses low self-esteem, they may feel uncertain about their worth and lack confidence, leading them to compare themselves to others to gain momentary feelings of superiority. When they point out others’ mistakes, they may feel a temporary advantage, even if it’s fleeting 🫤. People with low self-esteem frequently crave recognition and acceptance from others, which can drive them to repeatedly emphasize their contributions and correctness to receive external approval (as seen in his interactions with 李行亮).

Improving Relationships Through Self-Awareness

🌈 麦麦 needs to realize that frequently emphasizing his contributions and others’ failures can negatively impact any relationship, especially if this behavior incites negative emotions or pressure on those around him. Recognizing the importance of healthy communication and emotional processing could greatly enhance his connections with others.

Through understanding the dynamics of emotional transference and self-esteem, 麦麦 can take steps towards fostering healthier relationships and a more positive self-image.