Consequences of Ostracism and Potential Interventions to Mitigate Its Negative Outcomes

Ostracism, being ignored and excluded, thwarts the fundamental need to belong and has significant psychological and social consequences. Influenced by Kipling D. Williams's seminal work, our research on ostracism has primarily focused on its negative consequences and uncovered underlying mechanisms and moderators. First, we reviewed our findings around the three stages (i.e. reflexive, reflective, and resignation stages) outlined by Williams's temporal need-threat model. Next, we discussed potential approaches to alleviate adverse consequences of ostracism by drawing from our findings on mediating and moderating factors in four categories: need fortification, reframing ostracism experience, addressing negative outcomes, and bolstering individual resilience. Finally, we proposed future research directions regarding potential interventions to mitigate the negative outcomes of ostracism.