Mitigating the affective and cognitive consequences of social exclusion: An integrative data analysis of seven social disconnection interventions

Background: Being socially excluded has detrimental effects, with prolonged exclusion linked to loneliness and social isolation. Social disconnection interventions that do not require direct support actions (e.g., “how can I help?”) offer promise in mitigating the affective and cognitive consequences of social exclusion. We examine how various social disconnection interventions involving friends and unknown peers might mitigate social exclusion by either buffering (intervening before) and by promoting recovery (intervening after). Methods: We present an integrative data analysis (IDA) of five studies (N=664) that systematically exposed participants to exclusion (vs. inclusion) social dynamics. Using a well-validated paradigm, participants had a virtual interaction with two other people. Unbeknownst to participants, the other people’s behavior was programmed to either behave inclusively toward the participant or for one to behave exclusively. Critically, we experimentally manipulated the social context in which the exclusion occurred. Our social disconnection interventions manipulated whether a friend was present (vs. an unknown peer vs. being alone), the intensity of the social interaction (having a face-to-face conversation vs. being reminded of an upcoming interaction vs. mere presence), and the timing of the intervention in relation to the social dynamic (before vs. during vs. following exclusion). We then assessed participants’ in-the-moment affective and cognitive responses, which include mood, feelings of belonging, sense of control, and social comfort.Results: Experiencing exclusion (vs. inclusion) led to negative affective and cognitive consequences. However, engaging in a face-to-face conversation with a friend before the exclusion lessened its impact (p<.001). Moreover, a face-to-face conversation with a friend after exclusion, and even a reminder of an upcoming interaction with a friend, sped-up recovery (ps<.001). There was less conclusive evidence that a face-to-face conversation with an unknown peer, or the mere presence of a friend or unknown peer, conferred protective benefits. Conclusions: The findings provide support for the effectiveness of social disconnection interventions that involve actual (i.e., face-to-face) or symbolic (i.e., reminders) interactions with friends. These interventions target momentary vulnerabilities by promptly addressing negative affect and cognitions as they emerge. As such, they offer a promising approach to primary prevention prior to the onset of loneliness and social isolation.