We tested the internal reliability and predictive validity of a new 4-item Short Social Dominance Orientation (SSDO) scale among adults in 20 countries, using 15 languages (N = 2,130). Low scores indicate preferring group inclusion and equality to dominance. As expected, cross-nationally, the lower people were on SSDO, the more they endorsed more women in leadership positions, protecting minorities, and aid to the poor. Multilevel moderation models showed that each effect was stronger in nations where a relevant kind of group power differentiation was more salient. Distributions of SSDO were positively skewed, despite use of an extended response scale; results show rejecting group hierarchy is normative. The short scale is effective. Challenges regarding translations, use of short scales, and intersections between individual and collective levels in social dominance theory are discussed.

Research in clinical psychology and social psychiatry has highlighted the importance of social factors for outcomes following trauma. In this review, we speak to this issue in two ways. First, we highlight the value of a social identity framework for understanding the experience and impact of psychological trauma. Second, we draw on the Social Identity Model of Identity Change (SIMIC) to understand reactions to trauma. Specifically, we show (a) that negative responses to trauma are more apparent where trauma serves to undermine valued social identities; (b) that people prove more resilient in the face of trauma when valued social identities can be maintained or new social identities developed; and (c) that where old or new positive identities are reinvigorated or extend the self, this can be a basis for post-traumatic growth. We conclude by discussing the implications of this model for practice, and emphasise the importance of social identity management in the aftermath of trauma.