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Learning Targets

  • Describe our human affiliation need and evidence for it.
  • Discuss the influence of social networking.
  • Explain achievement motivation.

The Need to Belong

  • Humans have an innate need to belong, strongly influencing well-being and satisfaction (Baumeister & Leary, 1995).
  • Social connections boost life satisfaction; being alone can heighten feelings of loss (Li & Kanazawa, 2016).
  • Historical perspective: Aristotle emphasized the importance of friendships for a fulfilling life.
  • Attachment bonds enhance survival by promoting cooperation and safety among groups.
  • Social identity contributes to health and well-being; satisfaction in relationships correlates with happiness.
  • Strong affiliations enhance self-esteem, fueling social behaviors aimed at acceptance.

Benefits of Social Connections

  • Positive relationships are crucial for emotional health and psychological well-being.
  • Warmth from friendships reduces stress and physical pain (increased endorphins).
  • Relationships greatly influence happiness, often cited as a source of life's meaning.
  • Separation from loved ones leads to distress and loneliness, urging individuals to seek new connections.
  • Loneliness in older adults is linked to poorer mental and physical health outcomes.

Pain of Exclusion

  • Ostracism leads to emotional distress, motivating attempts to restore social bonds (Williams, 2007).
  • Social exclusion can prompt aggressive behavior and has been linked to instances of violence (Twenge et al., 2001).
  • The psychological pain from exclusion is akin to physical pain, affecting mental health significantly.

Social Networking's Influence

  • Digital platforms amplify social interactions but can also distort perceptions of relationships.
  • Increased connectivity can provide support but may lead to feelings of inadequacy if expectations are unmet (Blease, 2015).
  • Online interactions often lead to greater self-disclosure but can promote narcissism.

Achievement Motivation

  • Defined as the desire for significant accomplishments and mastery (Henry Murray, 1938).
  • High achievers show persistence and ambition, often outpacing others with similar talents due to self-discipline.
  • Achievement extends beyond intelligence, requiring dedication and grit (Duckworth).
  • Strategies for enhancing achievement include setting clear goals, creating support systems, and respecting the influence of intrinsic motivation on performance.