PsychologyJuly 20, 2026
incivility
/ˌɪnsɪˈvɪləti/
Definition
Rude, disrespectful, or impolite behavior that violates social norms of conduct.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'incivilitas,' formed by the prefix 'in-' (not) combined with 'civilis' (relating to a citizen). It entered Middle English through Old French to describe a lack of the manners expected of a refined citizen.
In the news
The article uses the term to differentiate between 'retaliatory incivility' and 'instigatory incivility' when discussing how people judge aggressive interpersonal social interactions. It serves as a psychological variable in studies regarding how individuals perceive and evaluate negative social behaviors.
Study finds unpredictable childhood environments are linked to borderline personality traits in adulthood
Read the full article ↗PsyPost