Perceived violation of rights and interests and collective action participation in China

We examined the relationship between individuals’ perceived violation of rights and interests and their participation in collective action. In addition, we examined the mediation effects of perceived relative deprivation and political interest. We used data from the Chinese General Social Survey conducted in 2010, which resulted in a sample size of 11,121. Results showed that, after controlling for demographic variables, perceived violation of rights and interests significantly increased the probability of individuals participating in collective action. Further testing showed that perceived relative economic deprivation had a significant mediation effect. Although perceived violation of rights and interests also increased individuals’ perceived relative social deprivation, the perception of relative social deprivation did not have an effect on collective action participation. Political interest, however, had a significant mediation effect. Practical implications for public administrators in China are discussed.