Social Identity Theory

Question 1

Social idenity theory definition

Answer 1

The idea thag our behaviour is directly motivated by our social identity

Question 2

Social categorisation

Answer 2

The ingroup is a social group in which we feel we belong to
Where as the outgroup is anybody who isnt involved within the ingroup

Tajfel- argues that this is a basic human thought/action that even causes prejudice towards those in the outgroups

Question 3

Social identification

Answer 3

Adopting beliefs, values from the ingroup you feel you belong to

Question 4

Social comparison

Answer 4

When self esteem is boosted due to the comparisons between the outgroup and ingroup

Question 5

Strength

Answer 5

Tajfel experiment with 15 Bristol boys where he had told them which boys behave like them, through choosing a painting
This created ingroups, then told that they can allocate points which can be exchanged for cash
The boys then allocated their ingroups more points than outgroups, they would even maximise the difference of the points between the ingroup + outgroup even if it meant the total sum of money to the ingroup would be less

Question 6

Weakness against strength.1

Answer 6

Lacks mundane realism as allocating points isnt the same as real life, isnt a true representation of how discrmination can work

Question 7

Ethnocentrism

Answer 7

Wetherall replicated the study in New Zealand, polynesian children showed more generousity with their points to the outgroup than gheir white classmates
Suggests SIT is ethnocentric as it isnt a clear representative of those with collectivist cultures