groupishness

Groupishness refers to the tendency for individuals to favor members of their own group over those of other groups. This behavior is a fundamental aspect of social psychology and is observed across various social contexts, from small informal gatherings to larger societal structures. It is characterized by in-group favoritism, where individuals allocate more resources, trust, and positive evaluations to members of their own group. Conversely, it can also involve out-group derogation, where individuals may exhibit prejudice or discrimination towards members of other groups.

The concept of groupishness is rooted in evolutionary psychology, suggesting that favoring one's own group may have conferred survival advantages in ancestral environments by promoting cooperation and mutual defense within a cohesive unit. Social identity theory further elaborates on this by proposing that individuals derive part of their self-esteem from the groups to which they belong. This can lead to a drive to enhance the status of one's in-group, often at the expense of out-groups.

This phenomenon manifests in various ways, including differential treatment in resource allocation, biased perception of fairness, and increased cooperation within the in-group. While groupishness can foster strong bonds and solidarity within groups, it can also contribute to intergroup conflict, prejudice, and social division. Understanding groupishness is crucial for addressing and mitigating its negative consequences in a diverse and interconnected world.