Social Identity Theory

Since its inception in the early 1970s, social identity theory has become one of the leading social psychological theories on group dynamics and intergroup relations. This entry provides an overview of the main tenets of the theory, with reference to key research findings. The theory explains how and when social categorization, social comparison, and social identification processes lead to intergroup discrimination and ingroup favoritism. Individuals categorize themselves and others into ingroups and outgroups, and strive for a positively valued social identity. Depending on the perceived status relations between the ingroup and the outgroup, the perceived stability and legitimacy of these status differences, and the perceived permeability of group boundaries, individuals may engage in three strategies to either achieve or maintain a positive identity, which have direct implications for understanding intergroup relations: individual mobility, social creativity, and social competition.