... two core assumptions, categorisation and enhancement; SIT posits that when group boundaries are made salient, individuals categorise people as members of their own group (in- group) or as members of another group (out- group), and thus, this motivates social comparisons that aim to enhance in-group status (Gaertner, Dovidio, Banker et al., 2000). Individuals then adopt the prototypical behaviour, norms, and values of the group, and thus, the social standing and prestige associated with the group, which subsequently will enhance member's self esteem (Deaux, 2001). Social identity has many implications, both for the persons who claim the social identity and for others who see them as members of particular categories (Reynolds, Turner, Haslam & Ryan, 2001). The following literature will assert that SIT has demonstrated a fundamental understanding of the psychological and motivational factors that facilitate inter-group conflict. By reviewing identity based research and theories of inter-group conflict, it will be ...

See this essay or coursework document in full right now