See: Christian Allen’s views
Belongingness theory, developed by Roy Baumeister and Mark Leary, seeks to explain the fundamental human need for social connections and the sense of belonging. According to this theory, humans have an innate and powerful motivation to form and maintain strong, positive relationships with others.
The theory proposes that belongingness fulfills a range of psychological and emotional needs. These needs include the need for social support, acceptance, love, companionship, and validation. When individuals feel a sense of belonging, they experience positive emotions, higher self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Baumeister and Leary argue that belongingness is a universal human need that is rooted in our evolutionary history as social beings. Humans have evolved to thrive in groups and to rely on social connections for survival and protection. Therefore, the desire to belong is deeply ingrained in our nature.
The absence of belongingness can lead to negative psychological consequences. When individuals experience social exclusion, rejection, or loneliness, it can have detrimental effects on their self-esteem, mental health, and overall functioning. The lack of belongingness may result in feelings of sadness, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self-worth.
Belongingness theory also highlights the importance of interpersonal relationships in fulfilling this need. It suggests that satisfying social interactions and meaningful relationships play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging. These connections can occur in various contexts, such as family, friendships, romantic relationships, or even in larger social groups.
In summary, belongingness theory posits that humans have an innate need for social connections and the sense of belonging. This need is deeply rooted in our evolutionary past and is essential for our psychological well-being. Understanding and nurturing our social connections is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and promoting overall happiness and fulfillment.