Navigating the Moral Landscape: Moral Identity Threat and Stress Responses Examining the relationship between Moral Identity, Group Identification, and Stress Outcomes in Dutch-International Student Dialogues

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between moral identity threat, stress responses and group identification in the context of intergroup discussions between Dutch and international students. Focusing on the interconnected and globalized society, it specifically examines the experience of potential loss or compromise to one's moral status within an intergroup dialogue. A sample of 50 students (25 dyads) participated in a controlled lab study where each dyad discussed the usage of Dutch and English languages within higher education, a contentious topic in the contemporary academic landscape. Both psychological (self-reported anxiety) and physiological (heart rate) measures of stress were obtained. Results indicated a significant increase in heart rate during the discussion compared to the baseline, suggesting an engagement of participants in the task. However, the anticipated relationships between moral identity threat, group identification, and stress responses (self-reported anxiety and heart rate) were not significant. The study adds to the body of literature on moral identity and stress responses in intergroup dynamics, albeit with null findings, and underscores the complexity of these relationships. It brings forth a range of methodological strengths, such as the incorporation of an intercultural perspective and controlled environment, while also highlighting limitations including the modest sample size and homogeneity, as well as potential issues with the moral identity threat measure. The findings underscore the importance of future research to further understand the complex interplay between moral identity threat, group identification and stress responses in diverse societal settings, which could aid in promoting inclusive environments and well-being.