Every stage in a person's life comes with this feeling to belong to a group and being accepted by the members of the group, this is what we refer to as "belongingness". It's in human nature to want to feel among and fit in with peers, colleagues at work, neighbors in the community, religious groups, etc. However, as much as belongingness has to do with getting acquainted with people, it is more centered around gaining acceptance, attention, and support from members of the group as well as providing the same attention to others. This blog post would be explaining;
1. Why do humans want to have a "sense of belonging" and;
2. What are the effects of belongingness 

Why do humans want to have a " sense of belonging"
Everyone wants to belong to someone or something, it's just a natural feeling, an emotion humans have to deal with. Everyone seeks attention and acceptance in one way or the other, little wonder why many seek out specific groups to belong to. In most cases, people seek out groups with people of the same mindset and interests. For example, teenagers who share an interest in the same fashion sense, and taste in music and movies would love to form friendships because of this same interest. Other factors like religious beliefs, socioeconomic status, shared goals, cultural interests, etc can lead people to form out-groups, and this way people can have a "sense of belonging". 

What are the effects of belongingness 
The outcome of belongingness will always be fulfillment, happiness, and overall wellbeing. When you feel like you matter to yourself and others, there are fewer worries about mental health outcomes like:
√ Suicidal thoughts 
√ Depression
√ Loneliness 
√ Hopelessness 
√ Anxiety, etc.

Finally, a sense of belonging will always help people to experience and enjoy companionship, friendship, and acceptance through family, friends, and other relationships.  Belong to a group today!