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All 10 Flashcards — Social identity theory
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Question
What is social identity theory?
Answer
Part of our self-concept comes from group membership, which shapes how we see and treat others.
Question
What are the three steps?
Answer
Social categorisation, social identification, and social comparison.
Question
What is social categorisation?
Answer
Sorting people into in-groups ('us') and out-groups ('them').
Question
What is social identification?
Answer
Adopting the identity, norms and values of a group we belong to.
Question
What is social comparison?
Answer
Comparing our group favourably with others to boost self-esteem.
Question
What is in-group favouritism?
Answer
Favouring our own group over others — a form of bias.
Question
What do minimal-group studies show?
Answer
Even trivial group divisions trigger in-group favouritism.
Question
One strength of the theory?
Answer
Supported by minimal-group and real-world studies; explains prejudice and teamwork.
Question
One limitation of the theory?
Answer
Lab studies can be artificial, and it underplays individual differences.
Question
Which concept is this?
Answer
Bias — group membership tilts judgements towards 'us'.
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Full study notes for Social identity theory
Topic 2.3 hub
Sociocultural approach
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Psychology exam skills
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