When the target matters: A cross-cultural comparison of the generalizability and specificity of identity fusion effects

Identity fusion, a synergistic union of the personal self and an additional entity, motivates people to fight and self-sacrifice to defend the fusion target. Yet, it is unclear whether the mechanisms underlying fusion effects are general or target-specific. Therefore, this research investigated fusion effects with three distinct targets: groups, leaders, and values, while introducing violence support as a potential mediator. First, three cross-sectional studies in Spain examined the association between fusion and willingness to fight, and the mediating role of violence support. Next, a quasi-experimental study in Israel directly compared these relationships across the three targets. Results confirmed a general positive association between fusion and willingness to fight for all targets. Notably, only fusion with groups and leaders was positively associated with violence support, which mediated the fusion effect on willingness to fight. Findings offer preliminary evidence for the generalizability of fusion effects, underscoring the specificity of its fundamental processes.