Social Group Identity - Exam 4

Question 1

Social Identity Theory

Answer 1

the idea that we categorize ourselves and others into groups (in-groups and out-groups)

Question 2

In-group definition

Answer 2

groups that we belong to

Question 3

Out-group definition

Answer 3

groups we do not belong to

Question 4

Why do we sort people into in/out-groups?

Answer 4

• bc we identify with groups to give/enhance self-esteem

which may make us think our group is better (possibly harmful)

Question 5

In-Group Bias definition

Answer 5

positive feelings and special treatment for people who are part of our in-group and negative feelings for others simply because we have defined them as being in the out-group

Question 6

What is “Out-Group Homogeneity”?

Answer 6

the perception that out-group members are more similar to each other than in-group members
“they are all alike and we are different”

Question 7

What is a reason for out-group homogeneity?

Answer 7

we have more contact with our in-groups across different situations/contexts than out-groups

Question 8

Recall the basics of the Robber’s Case Study

Answer 8

boys at camp were divided into the “Rattlers” and “Eagles” where they competed against each other for prizes in various activities and held a serious rivalry

Question 9

Robber’s Case Study results?

Answer 9

• immediate fierce and vicious hostility b/w the groups

- both groups displayed in-group bias and the out-group homogeneity effect

Question 10

What are some ways the RCS tried to reverse in-group and out-group development?

Answer 10

• tried to put them together at lunch, but it made it worse (reinforced their ideas)
• only worked when there was a problem where they had to cooperate with each other // conclusion: having contact isn’t enough, it requires some sort of cooperation towards a common goal

Question 11

How can in/out-group feelings be reduced?

Answer 11

Jigsaw Classroom
1 - divide class into groups of 4-6 students (HOME groups) where each student reads part of the lesson
2 - HOME groups split up into expert groups where students discuss their sections in order to become experts at it
3 - they return to their HOME groups as experts and teach everyone their particular section so everyone learns