No one likes getting rejected. But some men take it especially hard. Instead of just feeling disappointed and moving on, they react in ways that make the situation even more awkward for themselves and everyone around them. We asked some women to share what they’ve seen and experienced, and compiled a list. So here are 10 common ways men who struggle with rejection tend to react.
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Sending a flood of texts afterward
Instead of gracefully accepting the “no,” some men try to pressure the person who rejected them by sending a flood of texts over and over, begging, pleading, whining, or sometimes even threatening. These messages usually start out reasonable and then get increasingly desperate and/or angry.
Pretending they didn’t care in the first place
Some men act like they were never really interested, even though they clearly were. They’ll laugh it off or make a sarcastic comment like, “Whatever, I wasn’t serious anyway.” It’s a defense mechanism to hide hurt feelings.
Bad-mouthing the person who rejected them
After they are turned down, they might trash-talk the person to their friends, or maybe online in the dark corners of the internet. It’s their way of being defensive and not having to take any responsibility for the situation. It only makes them look bitter and childish.
Getting angry or aggressive
For some, rejection triggers outright anger. They might raise their voice, send hostile messages, or even confront the person in public. This reaction can be intimidating and deeply uncomfortable for everyone involved.
Trying to bargain for another chance
Offering to meet up as friends or to have “one date just to see” is a desperate attempt to try and regain their lost ground. These men are often so not ready to give up on their dream partner that they don’t care what they have to offer in exchange for another shot.
Ghosting completely
A classic choice that some men will make after being rejected is to simply vanish without a trace. They don’t go near the other person, not even in public anymore. They leave group conversations and events unanswered, and vanish from their social media.
Making big, over-the-top gestures
Buying an extravagant gift, writing long and heartfelt letters, and showing up at a person’s home unannounced are some of the ways men who can’t take rejection will go overboard. It’s usually an attempt to show their worth. It’s usually not as romantic as the movies try to make it out to be, but rather often just embarrassing, or even creepy.
Jumping into a rebound relationship
They quickly seek out someone else to prove that they’re fine. It’s not because they like the person or are interested in them, but rather an act of desperation. It rarely ever lasts very long.
Constantly bringing it up
Even months later, they might casually slip the rejection into conversations. It’s a sign they’re still stewing over it and haven’t fully moved on. Friends often find this behavior exhausting to be around.
Blaming themselves harshly
Instead of turning on the other person for hurting them, some will turn their anger and disappointment inward. They mentally go over the moment over and over in their head, criticizing everything they did or said. This can quickly lead to low confidence and an overall fear of trying again.
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