Abstract

Background: Social distancing and mass quarantines were implemented worldwide in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Prior research has shown that such measures bear negative consequences for population mental health and well-being. Conversely, a growing body of evidence suggests that feeling positively identified with a group is associated with physical and mental health benefits.

Aims: This study tested whether national identification could promote wellbeing and physical health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method: We used survey data conducted among 67 countries (N = 46,450). 

Results: Mixed-model analyses revealed that national identity was associated with wellbeing – despite adjustment on social belonging, COVID-19 perceived risk, exposure and ideology. This effect did not extend to physical health. 

Conclusions: These results suggest that the mere feeling of belonging to a national group may have mental health benefits. We discuss the implications of our findings within the social cure framework and their relevance for population mental health under COVID-19.

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Cite as

Bonetto, E., Delouvée, S., Mahfud, Y. & Adam-Troian, J. 2021, 'National identification, a social cure for COVID-19? Evidence from 67 countries', International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 68(5), pp. 1116-1126. https://doi.org/10.1177/00207640211020036

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Last updated: 03 May 2024
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