Meta‐identification: Perceptions of others’ group identification shape group life

Abstract

AbstractIn the present research, we introduce and develop the concept of meta‐identification – perceptions of others’ identification with a group – and examine its capacity to shape group life. Across two cross‐sectional studies and three experiments (Ntotal = 3992), we investigate the relationship between participants’ meta‐identification in an intragroup context and their group meaningfulness, collective self‐efficacy, organisational citizenship behaviour and (perceived and behavioural) performance. Results indicate that perceiving other group members to be highly identified with a group promotes perceptions of group meaningfulness and collective self‐efficacy, promotes organisational citizenship behaviour and enhances perceived, and in some contexts actual, group performance. Furthermore, results show that individuals’ meta‐identification makes a unique contribution to outcomes above and beyond their social identification. We discuss implications for social identity theorising and the role of meta‐identification in supporting meaningful and functional group life.