An integrative framework on the impact of allies: How identity‐based needs influence intergroup solidarity and social movements

2020/06/15 by Hema Preya Selvanathan, Brian Lickel, Nilanjana Dasgupta · 1 voice · 1 citation
Psychology · Social Sciences · #Collective identity #Cultural Differences and Values #Disadvantaged #Empowerment #Extant taxon #Identity (music) #Ingroups and outgroups #Law #Nonprofit Sector and Volunteering #Political science #Politics #Psychology #Social and Intergroup Psychology #Social group #Social identity theory #Social psychology #Solidarity

paper · doi:10.1002/ejsp.2697

openalex publication_date 2020/06/15 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/25

Abstract

Abstract What impact do advantaged group allies have within social movements? Although solidarity between advantaged and disadvantaged group members is often encouraged to achieve long‐term social change, allies run the risk of being ineffective or counterproductive, therefore making it important to shift our focus towards understanding the impact of allies. We propose an integrative theoretical framework describing the positive and negative impact of allies based on their distinct identity‐based needs: advantaged group members’ need for moral acceptance and disadvantaged group members’ need for empowerment and respect. By consolidating extant literature and identifying gaps in prior research, we propose a set of hypotheses concerning (a) tensions that arise within intergroup solidarity efforts for social change between advantaged group allies and disadvantaged group members, and (b) the role of allies in influencing broader public opinion to advance the psychology of social change.

Citations

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Cited by

• “Abort the government!” Alliances between diverse groups and collective action intentions as a response to threat evoked by abortion bans

Discussions

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