Frontiers | Relationship between ostracism and psychological crisis vulnerability among chinese college students: the mediating roles of self-uncertainty and subjective social status

February 24, 2026 - 10:23

A new study reveals a troubling connection between social ostracism and psychological vulnerability among university students in China. The research identifies key internal and social factors that explain why being ignored or excluded can push students toward a mental health crisis.

The investigation found that the experience of ostracism does not directly lead to a psychological crisis in a simple cause-and-effect manner. Instead, it operates through two significant mediating pathways. First, being socially excluded severely undermines an individual's sense of self, leading to increased self-uncertainty. This state of confusion and doubt about one's identity and values is a major contributor to psychological distress.

Secondly, ostracism damages a student's perceived standing within their social group, lowering their subjective social status. This diminished sense of belonging and rank further exacerbates feelings of worthlessness and anxiety. Together, the rise in self-uncertainty and the decline in perceived social status create a perfect storm, significantly raising a student's vulnerability to severe psychological crisis.

These findings highlight the profound impact of social environments on student mental health. They suggest that interventions aimed at fostering inclusion, clarifying self-identity, and building community belonging could be crucial in mitigating the severe psychological risks associated with campus ostracism. The study underscores the need for universities to look beyond individual counseling and address the relational dynamics that can trigger mental health emergencies.