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Updated: May 19, 2026
06:48
The HoneyComb Paradigm for Research on Collective Human Behavior
Published on: January 19, 2019
The many ways to be marginal in a group
Naomi Ellemers1, Jolanda Jetten
1Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands. ellemers@fsw.leidenuniv.nl
Summary
Marginal group members exhibit diverse inclusion goals, leading to varied stability in their positions. Understanding the negotiation between individual and group inclusion is key to explaining their complex behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Sociology
- Group Dynamics
Background:
- Existing theories focus on marginal members seeking core status.
- This overlooks other forms of marginality within groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a dynamic model of marginality.
- To explore the negotiation of inclusion between individuals and groups.
Main Methods:
- Development of the MARGINI model (Marginality as Resulting From Group and Individual Negotiation About Inclusion).
- Conceptualizing marginality as a result of negotiation over inclusion.
Main Results:
- Individual and group inclusion goals can converge (stable marginality) or diverge (unstable marginality).
- Unstable marginality can lead individuals to move closer or further from the group.
- Changing inclusion goals correlate with distinct emotions and behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Marginality is more complex than previously theorized.
- The MARGINI model explains diverse marginal member behaviors.
- Interplay of individual and group inclusion goals is crucial for understanding marginality.
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