Which of the following is most likely to occur when people's need to belong is satisfied?

• A. Increased feelings of well-being and self-esteem
• B. Heightened levels of social anxiety
• C. Decreased motivation to form close relationships
• D. Greater likelihood of social withdrawal

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the psychological concept of the 'need to belong,' which refers to the fundamental human motivation to form and maintain strong, stable interpersonal relationships.
2. Recognize that when this need is satisfied, it typically leads to positive psychological outcomes rather than negative ones such as anxiety or withdrawal.
3. Recall research findings in social psychology that link satisfaction of belongingness needs with increased feelings of well-being and enhanced self-esteem.
4. Evaluate each option by considering whether it aligns with the expected positive effects of fulfilling the need to belong.
5. Conclude that the most likely outcome is 'Increased feelings of well-being and self-esteem' because satisfying belongingness needs supports mental health and social functioning.