Game Technique #26 for group identity and pride
Core Idea: Elitism creates motivation by allowing users to form prideful groups based on shared characteristics, beliefs, or interests, triggering group pride and identity that motivates members to take specific actions to maintain or enhance the group's status.
Key Elements
Implementation Approaches
- Natural Groups: Leveraging existing identities (schools, nationalities, professions)
- Example: University rivalries driving donations and engagement
- Created Communities: Forming new groups around shared interests
- Example: Kiva.org pitting Christians vs. Atheists in charitable giving
- Competitive Frameworks: Establishing friendly competition between groups
- Example: Team-based fitness challenges
Psychological Mechanisms
- Creates sense of belonging and identity
- Triggers in-group favoritism and loyalty
- Motivates actions that represent the group positively
- Leverages social responsibility to not let down the group
- Activates competitive drive between groups
Effectiveness Factors
- Meaningful Differentiation: Groups need distinctive identity elements
- Balanced Competition: Rivalry should be productive, not toxic
- Visible Metrics: Clear ways to compare group performance
- Member Recognition: Acknowledging individual contributions to group success
- Positive Framing: Focus on achievement rather than antagonism
Ethical Considerations
- Can potentially reinforce harmful divisions if poorly implemented
- Should avoid creating genuine animosity between groups
- Must balance competition with respect and fairness
- Should focus on positive outcomes rather than "defeating" others
Additional Connections
- Broader Context: Core Drive 1 - Epic Meaning and Calling (connects to larger identity)
- Related Drives: Core Drive 5 - Social Influence & Relatedness (leverages social dynamics)
- See Also: Workplace Gamification (often uses team-based elitism for motivation)
References
- Chou, Yu-kai. "Actionable Gamification: Beyond Points, Badges, and Leaderboards."
#gamification #group_identity #competition #social_dynamics #motivation
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