Belongingness is a human need to feel connected, accepted, and valued by a group or community. It is an innate desire that drives individuals to seek social interaction and acceptance. The sense of belongingness is a vital aspect of human life, as it provides individuals with a sense of identity, purpose, and security.
Definitions
Belongingness can be defined as the feeling of being part of a group, community, or society. It is the sense of connectedness and acceptance that an individual experiences when they are with others who share similar values, beliefs, and interests.
According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, belongingness is a fundamental human need that comes after physiological and safety needs. It is a need for love, affection, and social interaction.
Origin
The term belongingness originated from the word “belong,” which means to be a member of a group or community. The concept of belongingness has been studied by various social psychologists, including Abraham Maslow, who introduced it as a fundamental human need.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Belongingness is defined differently in various dictionaries. In the Oxford English Dictionary, it is defined as the state or quality of being a member of a particular group or organization. In Merriam-Webster, it is defined as the state or feeling of being part of a group, family, or community.
Associations
Belongingness is often associated with positive emotions such as happiness, contentment, and fulfillment. It is also associated with a sense of identity, purpose, and meaning in life. Individuals who feel a sense of belongingness are more likely to have better mental health, higher self-esteem, and better social skills.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of belongingness include membership, inclusion, acceptance, connectedness, and affiliation.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of belongingness include isolation, exclusion, rejection, and detachment.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as belongingness include belong, belonging, and belongings.
Example Sentences
- The sense of belongingness that I feel when I am with my family is indescribable.
- Being part of a community gives me a sense of belongingness that I cannot find anywhere else.
- The lack of belongingness can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
- The sense of belongingness that I feel when I am with my friends is what makes life worth living.
- The need for belongingness is a fundamental human need that cannot be ignored.