social identity theory: Tajfel and Turner 1979

Question 1

What is social identity theory?

Answer 1

A theory that explains how an individuals self-concept is influenced by their group membership and prejudice can arise from the presence of out-groups

Question 2

Who proposed social identity theory and when?

Answer 2

Tajfel and Turner , 1979

Question 3

What are the three components of social identity theory?

Answer 3

• Social categorisation
• social identification
• social comparison

Question 4

What is social categorisation?

Answer 4

The process of dividing people into in-groups (us) and outgroups (them) based on shared characteristics

Question 5

What is social identification?

Answer 5

The process of aligning yourself with an in-group and adopting its values , norms and behaviours

Question 6

What is social comparison?

Answer 6

Evaluating your own group (in-group) against other groups (outgroups) to maintain positive self esteem

Question 7

What is in-group favouritism?

Answer 7

Preferring and rewarding members of your own group over members of out-groups

Question 8

What is out-group discrimination?

Answer 8

Treating members of out-groups unfairly or negatively due to their perceived differences

Question 9

What is the role of self esteem in social identity theory?

Answer 9

Social identity theory suggests that people strive to maintain/enhance their self esteem through positive group membership and in-group favouritism

Question 10

What study supports social identity theory?

Answer 10

Tajfel’s minimal groups studies , 1971