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MENTAL MODEL · M1954

Social Identity Theory

Social Identity Theory
BehaviorHigh supportSocial Psychology
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

An individual's self-concept is composed of personal identity (due to personality) and social identity (due to group membership). To maintain self-esteem, we tend to favor the in-group and derogate the out-group.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

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Reduce cognitive load

- Root of conflict: wherever there is group division, there is discrimination. To resolve conflict, either eliminate the grouping (everyone is an earthling) or create a higher-level common identity (everyone is a company partner).

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Individuals define themselves through group membership, and group status affects self-esteem. To maintain a positive self-image, people engage in in-group favoritism and out-group derogation (optimal distinctiveness and positive distinctiveness). When there is competition or status threat between groups, prejudice and conflict are activated. A common superordinate identity can rebuild inclusive identification.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_identity_theoryZH · Explicit
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