Examination of the Need to Belong Through Theories
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory that organizes human needs in a hierarchical structure, with basic needs at the bottom and higher-level needs at the top. The need to belong is located in this hierarchy under psychological and social needs.
1. Belonging and Social Needs: This level in Maslow's hierarchy includes the need for love, affection, belonging, and acceptance. It consists of both close relationships (such as family and friends) and broader social connections (like communities and social groups). People strive to overcome feelings of loneliness and isolation by constructing meaningful relationships and connections.
2. Role of Belonging in the Hierarchy: The need to belong comes after the fulfillment of physiological needs (such as food, water, shelter) and safety needs (security, stability). Once these basic needs are met, individuals would be in an effort to belong. When these needs are not met, higher-level needs in Maslow's Hierarchy such as esteem and self-actualization become challenging.
3. Impact on Well-Being: Maslow emphasizes that the unfulfillment of the need for belonging can lead to isolation, depression, and anxiety. Meeting this need significantly contributes to emotional well-being and self-esteem.
4. Transition to Higher-Level Needs: When the need for belonging is satisfied, individuals can progress to higher levels in the hierarchy, addressing esteem needs (recognition, achievement) and self-actualization.
Tajfel's Social Identity Theory
Henri Tajfel's Social Identity Theory is closely associated with the need to belong, highlighting how individuals gain identity and self-esteem through group memberships.
1. Social Categorization: According to this theory, individuals categorize themselves and others into social groups based on common characteristics (such as race, gender, nationality, profession). They identify with the "in-group" (to which they feel they belong) and the "out-group" (which they perceive as different).
2. Social Comparison and Self-Esteem: Social Identity Theory suggests that individuals derive their self-esteem not only from personal achievements but also from the status and accomplishments of the in-group. They tend to compare favorably with the out-group to enhance their self-esteem.
3. Positive Differentiation Need: Individuals are in an attempt to obtain a positive social identity by emphasizing the positive aspects of the in-group and attempting to distinguish it from the out-group. This pursuit of positive differentiation fosters a sense of belonging and pride within the group.
4. Need to Belong: This theory emphasizes the deep connection between the need to belong and the quest for a positive social identity. Feeling accepted within an in-group supports identity formation, approval, and a sense of self-esteem.
5. Behaviors of Individuals: Social Identity Theory explains efforts to prefer the in-group, discriminate against out-groups, and enhance the status of the in-group. These behaviors stem from the need for a positive social identity and belonging.
The Impact of the Sense of Belonging on Mental Health and Well-Being
The sense of belonging plays a critical role in mental health and overall well-being. Primarily, it reduces the feelings of loneliness and isolation. Belonging contributes positively to an individual's self-worth and self-esteem. As a person obtains acceptance within a group, their confidence and self-image are positively affected.
Simultaneously, as an individual achieves the need to belong, they develop strong social connections, providing support during stressful moments. This support aids in emotional regulation and enhances the ability to deal with life's challenges. Along with a decrease in stress, an increase in the individual's positive emotional state can be observed. Therefore, with strengthen mental resilience, the likelihood of psychological complications decreases compared to individuals who do not achieve their need to belong.
In general, a strong sense of belonging is closely associated with positive mental health. By establishing a foundation for emotional support, self-esteem, and resilience, it creates a conducive environment for overall psychological well-being. It is considered one of the fundamental needs for achieving general well-being and satisfaction in life.
References
Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497-529.
Cacioppo, J. T., & Patrick, W. (2008). Loneliness: Human nature and the need for social connection. WW Norton & Company.
Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370-396.
Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (1986). The social identity theory of intergroup behavior. In S. Worchel & W. G. Austin (Eds.), Psychology of intergroup relations (pp. 7-24). Chicago: Nelson-Hall.
Turner, J. C., Hogg, M. A., Oakes, P. J., Reicher, S. D., & Wetherell, M. S. (1987). Rediscovering the social group: A self-categorization theory. Basil Blackwell.
Hogg, M. A., & Terry, D. J. (2000). Social identity and self-categorization processes in organizational contexts. Academy of Management Review, 25(1), 121-140.
Jetten, J., Haslam, C., & Haslam, S. A. (2012). The social cure: Identity, health and well-being. Psychology Press.
