A Path to Solidarity: The Mediating Role of Self-Transcendence Values in the Relationship Between Perceived Anomie and Collective Action

Abstract

This study investigated whether perceived anomie can foster engagement in collective action, particularly in favour of marginalised groups, such as immigrants. Building on recent research suggesting that anomie may trigger prosocial values like benevolence and universalism, we tested the hypothesis that self-transcendence values mediate the relationship between perceived anomie and collective action intentions. A sample of 298 Italian participants completed validated measures of anomie perception, personal values (Schwartz’s model), and collective action support. Mediation analysis indicated that perceived anomie positively predicted self-transcendence values, which, in turn, significantly predicted support for collective action. The direct effect of anomie on collective action was non-significant, whereas the indirect effect via self-transcendence was significant, supporting the mediation hypothesis. These findings suggest that perceptions of societal breakdown may foster prosocial engagement by activating altruistic value orientations.