Sozialidentitätstheorie

Sozialidentitätstheorie, developed by Henri Tajfel and John Turner, is a social psychological theory that explains the formation of group identity and intergroup relations. It posits that individuals categorize themselves and others into social groups. This categorization process leads to the development of a social identity, which is a part of an individual's self-concept derived from their membership in social groups. The theory suggests that people strive for a positive social identity, which they achieve by enhancing the status of their in-groups relative to out-groups.

Key concepts within Sozialidentitätstheorie include social categorization, social identification, and social comparison. Social categorization is the process of classifying people into groups, such as by gender, ethnicity, or nationality. Social identification is the extent to which individuals internalize group membership into their self-concept. Social comparison involves comparing one's own group with other groups to determine its status. This comparison often leads to in-group favoritism and out-group discrimination, as individuals tend to view their own group more positively to bolster their social identity.

The theory has significant implications for understanding various social phenomena, including prejudice, discrimination, intergroup conflict, and cooperation. It highlights the powerful influence of group membership on individual behavior and perceptions. Sozialidentitätstheorie emphasizes that even minimal group situations, where group membership is arbitrary and lacks prior history, can lead to in-group bias. This underscores the fundamental human need for belonging and positive group affirmation.