National identification, a social cure for COVID-19? Evidence from 67 countries

• Published in: International journal of social psychiatry 2022-08, Vol.68 (5), p.1116-1126
• Main Authors: Bonetto, Eric, Delouvée, Sylvain, Mahfud, Yara, Adam-Troian, Jais
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Belonging; Coronaviruses; COVID-19; Cure; Health status; Humans; Mental Health; National identity; Pandemics; Pandemics - prevention & control; Physical Distancing; Quarantine; Risk perception; Well being
• ISSN: 0020-7640; 1741-2854
• DOI: 10.1177/00207640211020036

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.