ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the concept of social identification and its role in collective climate action. It explores how individuals come to see themselves as part of a group, moving from “I” to “we”. Illustrated with examples from the Fridays for Future movement and many other climate groups, the chapter explains the processes that lead from social identification to collective climate action, and explores strategies for strengthening identification with climate action groups. These strategies are based on two approaches tied to two social psychological processes: self-categorization as a group member and the motivation to do so. The first approach is to show people they are (already) part of a climate action group. This can be done by highlighting what people have in common with climate action groups and linking their groups to the fight against the climate crisis. Or it can be achieved by emphasizing action-promoting social norms and creating a shared group identity through interaction and shared experiences. The second approach is to create climate action groups that meet people’s psychological needs by fostering a sense of belonging, self-esteem, meaning, efficacy, and autonomy. The chapter concludes with an exercise to consider the group identities and norms shaping one’s life.
