Sense of Belonging | Cornell University Diversity and Inclusion (2024)

FAQs

How does belonging relate to diversity and inclusion? ›

Diversity definition simply means the differences between people, and equity is about securing everyone's access to the same opportunities and resources. Inclusion creates a welcoming and respectful environment; belonging is the feeling of being accepted and part of a community.

Belonging is the feeling of security and support when there is a sense of acceptance, inclusion, and identity for a member of a certain group. It is when an individual can bring their authentic self to work. When employees feel like they don't belong at work, their performance and their personal lives suffer.

The difference between diversity, inclusion and belonging is that diversity is the representation of different people in an organization, inclusion is ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute to and influence every part and level of a workplace, and belonging is ensuring that everyone feels safe ...

Research shows numerous benefits of school belonging on a range of student academic and health outcomes. For example, school belonging has been linked to greater academic achievement, and lower substance use and better mental health among students.

Examples of this may include the need to belong to a peer group at school, to be accepted by co-workers, to be part of an athletic team, or to be part of a religious group. What do we mean by the sense of belonging? A sense of belonging involves more than simply being acquainted with other people.

Creating an environment of belonging starts with five drivers. These five drivers lead to an environment where employees feel affirmation, pride, empathy, and trust. In turn, that helps to create a psychologically safe culture and opportunities for vulnerability.

Student Sense of Belonging is Fundamental: Recognize that student sense of belonging is fundamental to well-being and academic success. Cultivating a school environment where every student feels valued, respected, and connected is essential for creating a positive learning experience.

A sense of belonging is crucial to our life satisfaction, happiness, mental and physical health and even longevity. It gives us a sense of purpose and meaning. Research has shown that loss of belonging has been associated with stress, illness and decreased wellbeing and depression.

Benefits of diversity and inclusion at work. A diverse and inclusive environment establishes a sense of belonging among employees, making them feel more connected and productive. Organizations that adopt D&I practices see huge gains in the form of business results, innovation, and decision-making.

What does inclusion and belonging mean to you? ›

Inclusion v. Belonging: Diversity typically means proportionate representation across all dimensions of human difference. Inclusion means that everyone is included, visible, heard and Page 2 2 considered. Belonging means that everyone is treated and feels like a full member of the larger community, and can thrive.

Belonging helps us survive

Groups protect and support each other, making it more likely to raise offspring and pass on their genes. So, we literally inherit our desire to belong; it's hardwired in our brain.

Social inclusion and belonging are what make most of us feel whole. They make us feel like we have a place in our community, the comfort of family and friends, the right to pursue love and intimacy, and meaningful ways to enjoy our free time.

When children feel included, they are more likely to be accepting of others and sensitive to their needs, and they feel safer and more secure. The best learning happens when children see the adults around them putting values like care, compassion, respect, understanding and inclusion into practice.

A sense of belonging is crucial to our life satisfaction, happiness, mental and physical health and even longevity. It gives us a sense of purpose and meaning. Research has shown that loss of belonging has been associated with stress, illness and decreased wellbeing and depression.