Inclusion
Also known as being included, being part of
The need to be included in activities, decisions, and groups. A sense of being welcomed in rather than shut out.
When met or unmet
When met
- Being invited and welcomed
- Part of activities and decisions
- Not left out
When unmet
- Excluded or left out
- Not invited
- On the outside looking in
Common expressions
Why wasn't I included? I feel left out Thanks for including me
Strategies
- Expressing your interest in being included
- Seeking out welcoming groups and activities
- Including others as you would wish to be included
- Addressing exclusion when it happens
Recognition questions
- → Am I being included in things I care about?
- → Do I feel welcome or shut out?
- → Are there groups or activities I want to be part of?
Somatic markers
When met
- Warmth of welcome
- Relaxation into belonging
- A sense of being wanted
When unmet
- Pain of exclusion
- Feeling on the outside looking in
- Longing to be let in
Shadow side
- Demanding inclusion without considering others' boundaries
- Defining yourself by what groups you're part of
- Resentment toward those who have what you want
Cultural considerations
Inclusion boundaries vary: who is automatically included, who must be invited, who is appropriately excluded. In-group/out-group norms differ.
Related needs
Often confused with
Belonging
Belonging is feeling part of something; inclusion is being actively welcomed and involved.