Group-based self-regulation: The effects of regulatory focus

Self-regulation has recently been introduced as a means to investigate motivational processes in (inter)group research, thus granting new insights into similar mechanisms underlying diverse intergroup phenomena. This article focuses on empirical studies applying the predominant self-regulation approach to intergroup research: regulatory focus theory and its sister theory self-discrepancy theory. Studies conducted along these research lines are summarised, integrated, and evaluated as to whether the collective level has actually been addressed in terms of four criteria (adopted from Smith, Seger, & Mackie, 2007): effects stemming from ingroup rather than individual variables, stronger effects among more highly identified individuals, functionality for and social sharedness of the behaviour within the ingroup. The current evaluation leads to the conclusion that group-based self-regulation does indeed exist, meaning that group members self-regulate based on their social identity. Finally, the relation between current group-based self-regulation research and earlier research on motivation and (inter)group phenomena is clarified.

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