Schadenfreude

Schadenfreude is a German term that describes the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction someone experiences when witnessing another person's misfortune or difficulty. It’s a common human emotion rooted in social comparisons or feelings of justice, where people may feel relief, superiority, or validation when others face setbacks. While it might seem unkind, it’s a natural yet complex reaction that varies depending on context and individual differences. Understanding Schadenfreude helps in recognizing the multifaceted nature of human emotions and how we often respond to others’ successes and failures.