Jealousy is contrasted with envy through its focus on something one already has but fears losing, particularly a romantic partner. It exists as a clear mechanism for preventing the loss of one’s mate.38 But like so many other negative emotions, it is a crude instrument for bringing about this outcome. Your protectiveness may keep your partner around long enough to pass on your genes, but if it is a healthy, long-term relationship you long for, you will only do damage by trying to shelter your partner from other people.
