When Justice Smiles: Exploring the Relationship Between Malicious Joy and Perceived Cosmic Justice in Young Minds

Abstract

This paper explores the psychological phenomenon of schadenfreude the pleasure derived from another’s misfortune and its correlation with Just World Belief (JWB), the notion that individuals get what they deserve in life. The study examines the underlying psychological mechanisms, including social comparison, perceived justice, and victim-blaming tendencies. Additionally, the paper highlights the social and educational implications, particularly in childhood development and school environments. This paper investigates how these two concepts interact and what this reveals about human nature and social behavior. By reviewing existing literature and theoretical frameworks, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how JWB influences schadenfreude and its broader consequences in society.