social identity, activism, political effica, self-actualization, mental health

Collective action in society, or activism, may increase psychological distress of participants and societies. Multiple studies regarding this relationship of activist behavior and mental health among marginalized or minority groups were reviewed. Certain variables might decrease or even reverse this effect of activism on mental health. Activist behavior that is more passionate and low-risk could improve psychological well-being. Social identity theory explains that increased identification with a group may improve mental health. Despite social identity, activist behavior of itself may also increase feelings of self-actualization, or the feelings of joy that come from personal growth. Such participation in activism may also lead to feelings of hope and empowerment. The implications of activism for mental health can direct practitioner care and individual involvement. Although research on activism has been limited in regard to allies (i.e., activists not identified with the movement they support) and conservative activists, findings indicate that low-risk political activism can improve the mental health of participants.

Henderson, Tate (2024) "Making a Career of Humanity: Implications of Activism for Mental Health," Intuition: The BYU Undergraduate Journal of Psychology: Vol. 16: Iss. 2, Article 7.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/intuition/vol16/iss2/7

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