The Psychology of Hate

Identification

Statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation report the incidence of hate crimes showed an eight percent increase between 2005 and 2006. Over 50 percent of these crimes were race-related, with the remaining incidents triggered by sexual orientation, religion and gender differences. Most definitions of hate depict it as a strong emotion of dislike toward people, groups of people, or even objects. It can be rationally based in response to a past wrongdoing, or it can be irrationally based with no real connection to its target.

Hatred can also be self-directed where an individual dislikes aspects of himself. A distorted perception of self is typically the source of these feelings. This form can also be expressed through the exaggeration of one's abilities or nobility of character. In this case, the distorted image leans towards the positive, but still represents a denial of and dislike for one's actual self.

Characteristics

As far as hate crimes go, one would think individuals who partake in these acts to be mentally unstable, however a study carried out by the University of California showed differently. Out of 550 hate crime criminals profiled, researchers found aggression and antisocial behavior to be prevalent, but no personality disorders. Perpetrators were described as typically "normal" with a high tendency towards destructiveness and violence.

Hatred that's directed toward self most often stems from coping mechanisms that were instilled throughout one's childhood. As children, most people are taught to suppress, or redirect aggressive behaviors. The environment in which these directives are given can determine whether or not productive channels of expression are learned. The likelihood that an individual will direct these feelings toward herself or others depends on how dysfunctional the home environment was.

Whether feelings of hatred are rational or irrational, self directed or other directed, the logic system behind these feelings is distorted. Sigmund Freud, an early founder of psychology, classified all forms of behavioral expression as defense mechanisms used to protect one's self-image. As such, hatred expressed inwardly or outwardly becomes a self-protective measure that works to maintain one's sense of identity.

Theory

A study carried out by the University of California on persons who committed hate crimes also revealed that the majority of the participants had a family history of violence and abuse. With this type of background, individuals are more prone to internalize feelings of self-hatred as a part of their overall self identity. As far as defense mechanisms go, one type in particular---projection---is attributed to the experience of hatred directed towards another.

Projection is a defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously directs feelings felt about oneself onto another person. This is a coping mechanism put in place to protect a person from harmful thoughts and feelings felt toward self. The antagonistic disposition felt by someone towards the target of his hatred is, in effect, the same type of relationship he has with himself.

Resources

• Ego Defense Mechanisms in Psychology
• Social Issues : Hate Crimes