Abstract: Disappointment in interpersonal relationships may arise from a gap between the intentions and actions or perceptions that each person has of their own intentions and actions and those of others (Intention and Behaviour Gap).
This gap can originate from:
(a) a diminished or lack of insight or awareness of own emotions and behaviours, and it’s effect on others,
(b) lack of awareness of the intention or the desired outcomes and
(c) the gap existing between the two people as well as the
(d) inability to change behaviour.
This gap could be related to behaviours people have that have become known and culturally accepted as rigid and inflexible. Consequently, the person focuses on their intention with little to no self-knowledge of the displayed behaviour, thus judging their own actions on their good personal intention while judging others based on their perceptions rather than the others’ intentions. This inclination amounts to self-righteousness and can increase the likelihood of frustration and anger towards the perceived bias and lack of fairness towards others. In turn, this might cause interpersonal discord, resentment, misunderstanding, and conflict.