Tracing the Psychological Roots of Perceived Injustice: A Review of the Influences of Individual Differences and Social Contexts

Perceived injustice refers to an individual’s subjective judgment of unfairness in resource distribution, treatment, or social interactions. Its influencing factors span two key dimensions: individual characteristics and external environments. Individual characteristics include age, negative emotions, sense of power, self-esteem, and personality traits, with significant variations in unfairness perception and reactions across different age groups. External factors involve social distance, group identity, personal experiences, and distribution disparities. Grounded in Social Comparison Theory and Social Identity Theory, this study explores the psychological mechanisms underlying perceived injustice. Future research should integrate cross-cultural perspectives and multidisciplinary theories to inform organizational management, social policies, and mental health interventions, thereby promoting social equity and harmony.