Sociocultural Approach Content Review Flashcards
Social Identity Theory
Social identity theory is based on the cognitive process of social categorization. Social categorization is the process of classifying people into groups based on similar characteristics. This categorization gives rise to in-groups (us) and out-groups (them). This is argued to form an automatic bias towards the out-group, consequently creating in-group favouritism.
In-Group Bias
Favoring members of one’s in-group over out-group members.
Social Groups
Social groups are formed by way of social identity theory, in which the process of social categorization forms clear divides between societies based on similar characteristics.
Social Cognitive Theory
Social Cognitive Theory assumes that humans learn behaviour through observational learning, often from an indirect teacher, whose actions are naturally imitated. Unlike other learning, SCT does not need positive reinforcement. The fact that the model was rewarded or punished for behaviour, is sufficient, called vicarious reinforcement.
Formation of stereotypes: Illusory Correlation
When people see a relationship between two variables even when there is none. Found to be a leading cause of stereotype formation.
Effects of Stereotypes: Stereotype Threat
When worry about conforming to a negative stereotype leads to underperformance on a test or other task by a member of the stereotyped group
Influence of culture on behaviour
When an individual’s behaviour is affected by cultural dimensions, forming a group of people with shared behaviour because of their collective culture.
Cultural Groups
A group of people sharing the same values and behaviour due to a similar cultural upbringing and cultural values. This forms a cultural group.
Cultural Dimensions
The trends of behaviour in a given culture which reflect the values of that culture.
Enculturation
The process of adopting or internalizing the schemas of your culture.
Norms
A set of rules based on socially or culturally shared beliefs of how an individual ought to behave to be accepted within that group.
Acculturation
The process by which someone comes into contact with another culture and begins to adopt the norms and behaviours of that culture.
Acculturation Gaps
Generational differences in acculturation and how this leads to conflict within the family.
Assimilation
When an individual abandons their original culture and adopts the cultural behaviours and values of a new culture.
Globalization
The process of interaction and integration among people of different nations and cultures.
