Importance of Emotion in Creating Collective Identity in the Stillwater League of Women Voters an Exploratory Case Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the role that emotion plays in creating collective identity in the Stillwater League of Women Voters. I examined these issues through an exploratory case study of the League. I employed qualitative research methods to conduct the study. I interviewed twenty respondents from the League. The interviews were open ended and in depth in format. In addition to the interviews, and to achieve triangulation, I also did participant observation and examined League documents.Findings and Conclusions: The overall findings of this study fell into two categories: Components of a Collective Identity and Social and Political Activism. Overall, the members of the League of needed an outlet from home and being in the company of like-minded women who and work to right any injustices. This study was significant in that it centers on the contribution to the growing body of literature on collective identity and emotion