ABSTRACT
Humans have an evolutionary need to belong to a group. Belonging is critical to our survival. Scientists from a variety of fields have studied the drive to belong. Studies show that the human brain’s preferred state from birth onward is to be socially connected with others. The brain’s evolutionary adaptations to facilitate bonding and belonging can sometimes serve us poorly in virtual interactions. Levels of brain chemicals that play a major role in facilitating social bonds decrease. It can be harder to build trust and create an environment of psychological safety in groups and teams. When the basic needs for safety, understanding and belonging to a group or team are not met, there can be a feeling of not being fully seen or heard. Fatigue and stress accumulate. Undergoing prolonged and excessive stress can lead some people to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. Possible reactions to this extreme stress include mental and physical exhaustion, detachment from work and colleagues, a self-evaluation of reduced professional efficacy and a lack of achievement. The combination of exhaustion, detachment, and feelings of inefficacy at work is referred to as burnout.
