The sense of community for the Chinese nation among different ethnic groups: The role of perceived ethnic group continuity and ethnic group identity

This study explored the relationship between perceived ethnic group continuity and the sense of community for the Chinese nation, and tested the mediating role of ethnic group identity among Han nationality and ethnic minorities in China. The study surveyed 3158 adolescents belonging to various ethnic groups (70 % females; M_age = 21.6 ± 2.21 years), recruited using convenience sampling. The survey included the Perceived Ethnic Group Continuity Scale, Ethnic Group Identity Scale, a Psychological Scale for Chinese Nation Community Consciousness, and a self-made demographic questionnaire. Results showed the perceived ethnic group continuity for Han nationality and ethnic minorities in China positively predicted their sense of community for the Chinese nation through the mediating effect of ethnic group identity. Perceived ethnic group continuity and ethnic group identity were found to promote the sense of community for the Chinese nation. ‘Perceived Ethnic Group Continuity-Ethnic Group Identity Integration’ theoretical model was constructed, providing a crucial psychological mechanism explanation for coordinating ethnic survival needs and national community building in global multi-ethnic states. Under the premise of fully respecting the cultural subjectivity of ethnic groups, cultivating perceptions of historical culture continuity, and constructing inclusive identity systems can effectively achieve compatible symbiosis between ethnic group and national identity. This discovery transcends the governance dilemma of ‘separate coexistence’ in traditional multiculturalism, offering an operational psychological pathway to resolve the structural tension between ‘diversity’ and ‘unity’ in multi-ethnic states. Current findings holds practical significance for China’s social harmony and offers valuable references for the harmonious development of other multi-ethnic nations worldwide.