Social Identity, Distinctiveness, and In-Group Homogeneity

Although the relative difference between perceived heterogeneity of in-groups and out-groups has been referred to as the “out-group homogeneity effect,” it could just as well be conceptualized in terms of perceptions of in-group heterogeneity. The present paper seeks to reconcile findings that in-groups are often perceived as differentiated or variable with predictions from Social Identity theory regarding in-group homogeneity. It is argued that perceived variability of in-groups (but not out-groups) is subject to motivational forces associated with the need for self-identity and differentiation from others. A theory of optimal distinctiveness is proposed which holds that perceived in-group homogeneity will depend on group distinctiveness and level of social identification.