Belongingness Needs

Definition

These involve emotional requirements such as friendship, intimacy, family - essentially feeling loved and accepted by others once physical survival and safety has been secured.

Analogy

Belongingness needs are like being part of a sports team. Even if you have the best equipment (physiological needs) and a safe playing field (safety needs), you still need to feel part of the team to truly enjoy and excel in the game.

Related terms

Social Identity Theory: This theory explains how our sense of self is shaped by our social group memberships, which ties into belongingness as we often seek groups where we feel accepted and valued.

Self-Disclosure: The act of revealing personal information about oneself to others, which can foster feelings of intimacy and belongingness.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: In Maslow's model, belongingness forms the third tier after physiological and safety needs have been met.