Loving the Group That Denies You First: Social Identity Effects of Ostracism Before Inclusion

Ostracism is an aversive situation that occurs frequently in everyday life; however, few empirical studies have investigated multiple experiences of inclusion or ostracism from the same group. The prior work in this area has also not evaluated the influence of subsequent inclusion and ostracism on identification with the group, perceptions of the group, or group member behaviors. Across three experiments, the current study investigated the impact of subsequent inclusion and ostracism on an individual’s fundamental needs, identification with the group, perceptions of the group, and risk taking to benefit the group. It was hypothesized that participants who were ostracized and then included would show significant increases in group identification, positive group perceptions, and risk taking to benefit the group. Support for these hypotheses was found. Results are discussed regarding the impact of subsequent experiences of ostracism and inclusion on the individual and his or her relationship with the group.