Disappointment: A state of dismay or dissatisfaction; feeling let down
Disappointment comes in many packages, mostly misread by ourselves as well as others. Most of us were not taught the emotion, disappointment. If we were disappointed, we more than likely not allowed to say it.
Christmas. It is early one Christmas morning and all of the presents have been opened. You patiently wait for the one present you asked Santa for…The Peaches and Cream Barbie. You are positive this Barbie you have your heart set on is there. It probably was misplaced or Santa had hidden it in a special location, only for you to find when the other presents had been opened.
You are fighting back the tears until you can’t stand it. Your mom asked you, “What is the matter”? You respond with, “I did not get the Peaches and Cream Barbie I asked Santa for” as tears are flowing down your face.
Mom responds with, “Don’t be ungrateful! There are so many kids out there that got nothing. Look around at the things you did get”. In other words, “You can’t be disappointed so shut up and suck it up!” Footnote: You don’t deserve to have feelings, much less state them.
Adults may choose not to show disappointment for various reasons, which could be influenced by personal, cultural, experiences, or situational factors.