Ostracism: The Power of Silence

Abstract

Ostracism is among the most powerful means of social influence. This book provides a comprehensive examination of this pervasive phenomenon, exploring the short- and long-term consequences for targets as well as the functions served for those who exclude or ignore. This author offers a new perspective on a crucial aspect of human experience. The author also presents an exemplary model for programmatic and multimethod research. Following a concise review of existing research, the book delineates an integrative model of ostracism to facilitate more systematic investigation. The author's research program is described, comprising laboratory experiments, surveys, narrative accounts, interviews, Internet-based research, brief role-plays, and week-long simulations.