Psychology
What does RSD mean?
Acronym for rejection sensitive dysphoria: a disproportionate pain at a rejection signal, common in ADHD speech.
Definition
RSD is not a DSM code. It is the name William Dodson and the ADHD community gave to the sudden drop after a no, a tone, a seen. It can look dramatic to an observer; inside it is physiological and fast. The word helps people ask for space. It can also become a circular excuse. The lexicon records community use, not a report.
Origin
Community-clinical English, associated with William Dodson and adult ADHD outreach.
History
From the informed clinic to TikTok. The acronym fits a comment.
How it emerged
The drop after a no needed a name that was not fuss.
Usage examples
RSD hit with just a seen and no reply.
It is not a whim; it is a drop. It also does not authorise blowing up the other person.
Translations
- pt RSD / disforia de rejeição
- en RSD
- es RSD / disforia de rechazo
Synonyms
- rejection dysphoria
- drop after no
- thin skin in bonds
Acronyms
- RSD
Related terms
Questions
What is RSD?
The community name for acute pain at rejection signals, much cited in ADHD.
In the DSM?
Not as its own diagnosis.
An excuse?
It describes an experience. It does not erase responsibility for what one does in the drop.