Ethno‐National and Religious Identifications, Identity Compatibility, and Trust in Leaders: A Two‐Study Investigation in a Politically Fragmented Society

Abstract

ABSTRACT Social identities, such as ethno‐national and religious identities, can shape group cohesion, trust in leadership, and societal stability in politically fragmented contexts. A key factor influencing these dynamics is identity compatibility—the extent to which individuals perceive their multiple identities as harmonious or conflicting. While linked to psychological well‐being and intergroup relations, its role in trust in political and religious leaders remains underexplored. This research examines these relationships in the Region of Kurdistan, where two ethno‐national identities—Pan‐Kurdish and Iraqi Kurd—coexist, shaped by differing political perspectives. Two cross‐sectional studies were conducted among Sunni Kurds. Study 1 examined a student sample ( N = 227, 62.1% female, Mage = 21.39, SD = 2.59) to assess the relationship between ethno‐national and religious identification and identity compatibility. Study 2 extended this investigation using a community sample ( N = 626, 42.7% female, Mage = 39.28, SD = 12.97) and examined trust in government and religious leaders. Both studies consistently showed that ethno‐national and religious identification positively related to identity compatibility. Study 2 further demonstrated that identity compatibility mediates the relationship between identifications and trust, showing that higher identity compatibility was associated with greater trust in group leaders. Despite ethno‐national divisions, identity compatibility was related to trust in both political and religious leaders. Findings highlight that ethno‐national and religious identifications contribute to identity compatibility, while Study 2 confirms its association with trust. This suggests reinforcing identity compatibility could enhance intergroup cohesion and stability in politically fragmented societies.