When people feel supported and secure, they help build a better society in the long term
Felt security is distinct from psychological safety, which is a group-level belief that speaking up, taking risks or making mistakes won’t lead to rejection or punishment within the team.
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The need for workplaces that are truly inclusive, caring and equitable is growing intensely. So, how can leaders create an environment where employees feel empowered to help one another, support diversity initiatives and contribute to community causes?
Prior research has linked this kind of prosocial behaviour to personality traits or the immediate impact of certain leadership styles. However, our research shows that when people feel supported by those around them, they gain a sense of felt security that motivates them to help others and society, not just in the moment but over the long term.
We found that bolstering felt security – a sense of being safe, cared for and loved – through social support can enhance employees' sense of security, motivating them to champion diversity initiatives, support underrepresented groups and contribute to building a more inclusive culture.
Felt security is distinct from psychological safety, which is a group-level belief that speaking up, taking risks or making mistakes won’t lead to rejection or punishment within the team. While one’s psychological safety can change depending on the characteristics of the group they are part of, their felt security is generally more stable and operates at an individual level, based on their connections with other individuals.
Felt security is largely shaped by the attachment style formed with a primary caregiver early in life, with secure attachments leading to greater security in adulthood. However, research indicates that relationships later in life, such as with a romantic partner, can also influence felt security. Our research extends this idea to the workplace, showing that organisations and the colleagues employees connect with at work can play a crucial role in maintaining employees' felt security.
[This article is republished courtesy of INSEAD Knowledge, the portal to the latest business insights and views of The Business School of the World. Copyright INSEAD 2025]