The Perception of Ingroup and Outgroup Homogeneity: Reintroducing the Intergroup Context

This chapter investigates the influence of the intergroup context on the perception of ingroup and outgroup homogeneity. Specifically, three determinants of perceived group homogeneity which originate in the intergroup context are examined: (1) the numerical relation between ingroup and outgroup; (2) the relevance of the dimensions or attributes in question for ingroup definition or social identity; (3) the socially prevailing group stereotypes. It is shown that the outgroup homogeneity effect (i.e. the tendency to perceive more outgroup than ingroup homogeneity) is by no means a universal law—rather, both outgroup and ingroup homogeneity effects are found—and that models of category representation which ignore the influence of the intergroup context are insufficient. Finally, the relations between perceived group homogeneity and three other social psychological phenomena, namely minority influence, ingroup favouritism and self-stereotyping, are briefly discussed.