Normative or not? Emotional processes in identity-motivated collective action

In this research, we investigated the links between different forms of ingroup identity and extrinsic emotion regulation while acting collectively. Specifically, we propose that nonprosocial managing others' emotions explains the link between collective narcissism and nonnormative collective action. Conversely, prosocial managing others' emotions explains the link between secure ingroup identification and normative collective action. Across a representative sample of adult Poles in 2021 (Study 1; N₁ = 495), a convenience sample gathered during and shortly after an actual Polish manifestation in 2022 (Study 2; N₂ = 360), and a sample of the U.S. residents supporting or opposing Donald Trump's conviction in 2023 (Study 3; N₃ = 395), we found that nonprosocial and prosocial managing emotions of others were significant mediators in explored relationships. To ensure the generalizability of our findings, we approached three various identities and two nationalities. Noteworthy, the sample in Study 2 was relatively extreme and differed from other contexts, still confirming our main hypotheses. Based on the literature and current research, we discuss the importance of building bridges between the emotion regulation and collective action literature. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).