Cooperation in social dilemmas and the need to belong: The moderating effect of group size.
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Abstract
The present research examined the effects of the need to belong and group size on cooperation in a public goods dilemma. On the basis of previous research (R. F. Baumeister & M. R. Leary, 1995), it was expected that those high in the need to belong would cooperate most. In addition, it was expected that the need to belong would predict cooperation for large-group members but not for small-group members. Analyses supported both hypotheses. Furthermore, individual differences in the need to belong were positively correlated with frustration about individuals’ (cooperative) decision, a feeling believed to emerge from the felt uncertainty over whether cooperation would be reciprocated by others, the conflicting motivations of the need to belong and personal self-interest, or both.