Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 23, 2026

Behavioral Tasks for Examining Identity Recognition In Mice
Published on: February 7, 2025
A Social Recognition Approach to Autonomy: The Role of Equality-Based Respect
Daniela Renger1, Sophus Renger1, Marcel Miché2
11 Kiel University, Germany.
Abstract:
Inspired by philosophical reasoning about the connection between equality and freedom, we examined whether experiences of (equality-based) respect increase perceived autonomy. This link was tested with generalized experiences of respect and autonomy people make in their daily lives (Study 1) and with more specific experiences of employees at the workplace (Study 2). In both studies, respect strongly and independently contributed to perceived autonomy over and above other forms of social recognition (need-based care and achievement-based social esteem) and further affected (life/work) satisfaction. Study 3 experimentally confirmed the hypothesized causal influence of respect on perceived autonomy and demonstrated that this effect further translates into social cooperation. The respect-cooperation link was simultaneously mediated by perceived autonomy and superordinate collective identification. We discuss how the recognition approach, which differentiates between respect, care, and social esteem, can enrich research on autonomy.
Related Concept Videos
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
Role-Based Identity
Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory
Autonomy is the need to feel in control of one's actions and decisions. For example, a student who chooses their research topic is likely to be more engaged and motivated than one who...
Sources of Self-Esteem III: Social Comparison
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Self Within Cultural Contexts

