How could redistribution be possible? Effects of national identity and communion among Chinese youth

Previous studies in Western countries demonstrated that the relationship between national identity and redistribution preferences was inconsistent, and few studies addressed the cross-cultural consistency about this relationship. Based on social identity theory, the present study aimed to explore the relationship between national identity and redistribution preferences and its mechanisms as well as boundaries through three sub-studies in Chinese youth. A cross-sectional study among 1791 young adults, a priming experiment among 182 college students, and integration of experimental manipulation and daily diary study among 51 college students were conducted respectively in study 1–3. We found that national identity of Chinese youth had positive effect on redistribution preferences and communion mediated this effect at the static and dynamic levels (study 1–3). Dark Triad strengthened the direct relationship between national identity and redistribution preferences (study 1), whereas weakened its indirect relationship (study 1 and 3). These findings indicated the positive effect of national identity on redistribution preferences and the mediating role of communion in this effect, and the well-adapted function of Dark Triad to some extent. These findings provided theoretical basis for the initiative for common prosperity from the perspectives of identity and personality in Chinese context.