Belonging

In this conversation, Dr. Kellyanne Allen, an educational and developmental psychologist, discusses the concept of belonging and its importance in human flourishing. She shares her personal journey and inspiration for researching belonging, particularly in educational settings. Dr. Allen emphasizes the need for individual perspectives on belonging and the role of competencies in building connections. She also explores the impact of early experiences and attachment styles on belonging. The conversation highlights the challenges of maintaining relationships in a busy and technology-driven world. Ultimately, Dr. Allen affirms that a sense of belonging is crucial for human flourishing and discusses the cultural and individual differences in belonging needs. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly-Ann Allen discusses the importance of belonging for academics and how it can contribute to their flourishing. She emphasizes the need to humanize academia and create frameworks that facilitate collaboration and connection. Dr. Allen also addresses the issue of loneliness among early career researchers and provides advice on building networks and support systems. She highlights the role of policy changes in promoting belonging and suggests opportunities for policymakers to invest in creating inclusive communities. The conversation concludes with a reflection on personal belonging and the diverse spaces where individuals can find a sense of belonging.

Takeaways

• Belonging is about feeling accepted and valued by others.

• Individual perspectives on belonging vary, and it is important to consider the unique needs and experiences of each person.

• Building a sense of belonging in schools requires understanding and addressing the individual needs of students.

• Technology can be a tool for fostering belonging, but it is important to balance virtual and in-person connections.

• Early experiences and attachment styles can influence an individual's sense of belonging.

• Developing competencies in social and emotional skills can enhance one's ability to connect and belong.

• Human flourishing is closely tied to a sense of belonging, but cultural and individual differences should be considered.