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

Abstract

In 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.