12 Belonging
What is it?
Belonging means, “the subjective feeling of deep connection with social groups, physical places, and individual and collective experiences” (Allen et al., 2022).
Why is it important?
Feeling the need to belong is something all humans experience. “Belonging” is included in the third level of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
When one does not experience a sense of belonging, it can lead to social isolation and loneliness.
Tools You Can Use
1. UNMC Student Organizations:
- This website takes you to organizations you can join as an UNMC student!
- Some of the organizations you can join include Crotchet Club, Running Club, Self Defense, and so much more!
2. AOTA Opportunities:
- Special Interests Section
- AOTA gives the opportunity to join Special Interest Sections to to support practice-specific connections.
- You can explore the 9 broad groups they have and build your network!
- CommunOT Virtual Group
- This is where AOTA members can join online forums to ask questions, respond to others, and to interact!
- The online forums are made from the Special Interests Sections, but anyone can join and participate in the discussion.
- There’s even a specific section for students!
- Communities of Practice
- Join a community of practice to network and learn through a social environment!
- There are 29 communities with a wide variety to choose from.
- Some of the communities include Autism Community of Practice, Early Childhood Community of Practice, Women’s Health Community of Practice, and so much more!