ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book also presents new and recent research findings from quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies conducted by the author and many other scholars across various fields/disciplines throughout the country. It suggests that the sense of belonging is framed as a basic human need and motivation, sufficient to influence behavior. The book describes namely the link between social isolation, loneliness, perceived fit, and belonging. It assesses a substantive review of the extant literature on sense of belonging and critiques that literature in light of new and emerging scientific discoveries. The book analyses the college students stress the importance of social acceptance, support, community, connections, and respect to their own identity, development, mental health, wellbeing, and academic success. It shows that the resultant model will be outlined generally, defined explicitly, and illustrated graphically.
