Abstract
This study investigates how negative in-group favoritism (the allocation of white noise) is associated with belonging in the minimal group paradigm. Participants were assigned to minimal groups and then randomly allocated to one of three Cyberball conditions (inclusion, ostracism, or no feedback). Subjective levels of belonging were then measured. Participants were then allowed to show in-group favoritism or fairness. Immediately after, this belonging was again measured. The results revealed that included and ostracized participants exhibited higher levels of in-group favoritism than those in the no-feedback condition. Notably, individuals who experienced inclusion displayed the most pronounced in-group favoritism. Additionally, an increase in the sense of belonging among ostracized individuals was directly associated with their engagement in-group favoritism. The ramifications of these findings are discussed.