Age-related changes in the effect of ostracism

Research has shown that ostracism negatively affects four basic psychological needs: sense of belonging, self-esteem, control, and meaningful existence. Despite the high degree of social affiliation among adolescents, there has been relatively little empirical research on ostracism in this age group. Here we assessed age-related changes in the effects of ostracism on the four basic needs. Adolescents, emerging adults, and young adults were either included or ostracized using a computer game called Cyberball. Ostracism negatively affected participants' basic needs, but the magnitude of the effect was larger in the two younger age groups. Although ostracism may be a potent experience for all individuals, adolescents and emerging adults may experience increased sensitivity to ostracism relative to their older counterparts.