Schadenfreude is a widespread social emotion among humans, but the existing understanding
of schadenfreude is not thorough enough and the aftereffects of schadenfreude are not well studied. This
study was designed to examine the positive aftereffects of Schadenfreude and to clarify the theoretical
contradiction between the moral darkness and the existence of Schadenfreude based on the function of
Schadenfreude in intergroup interactions. The study hypothesized that out-group schadenfreude could
promote positive intragroup behavior, with belonging mediating this effect. The findings suggest that
although outgroup schadenfreude can promote ingroup willingness to behave positively, the mediating
effect of belonging is not significant. We consider the reasons that may affect the results and provide
ideas and considerations for further research in terms of experimental design, measurement tools, and
measurement indicators. In addition, this study found that viewing others’ immoral behavior promotes
the effect of one’s own moral behavior, which is contrary to the predictions and findings of social learning
theory. The discussion of intergroup interactions provides inspiration for further research.