Three broad strands of research are concerned with the interplay of cultural values, personal and social identity and well-being. There is a long-standing tradition of cross-cultural research in the group.
Identity processes and motives
- What are the key features of a 'satisfactory' identity?
- Why are people happier with some aspects of their identities and less happy with others?
- What makes people view some possessions, brands, places, and groups of others as 'part of themselves'?
- What is the role of respect (from and for other ingroup members) in group processes?
People: Viv Vignoles, Karen Long
Culture and identity construction
- How do cultural differences affect the self-understandings of people in different parts of the world?
- What is the interplay of culture and motivational influences on identity construction?
People: Viv Vignoles
Virtual identities
- What are people trying to achieve when they participate in online social networks? Do their motives differ depending on their cultural background?
People: Karen Long
* Image courtesy of www.istockphoto.com
