The influence of our self-perceptions affects our attributions and perceptions of people.
One of the most salient examples of the importance of self-perception is the influence of group identity. Recall reference groups which provide their members with a set of values and beliefs. The ideas imparted by a reference group can include particular viewpoints on other people and groups. Perceiving oneself as part of a particular group may result in the adoption of that group’s perceptions of others. In-group identification also leads to comparisons between in-group and out-group members, where in-group members are viewed more positively and are thought to have greater variability on assorted personality traits than out-group members.
Practice Questions
Khan Academy
Physiological stress response to cuss words
MCAT Official Prep (AAMC)
Key Points
• The influence of our self-perceptions affects our attributions and perceptions of people.
• The ideas imparted by a reference group can include particular viewpoints on other people and groups. Perceiving oneself as part of a particular group may result in the adoption of that group’s perceptions of others
Key Terms
self-perception: perception of oneself
reference group: refers to a group to which an individual or another group is compared
in-group: a social group to which an individual feels they belong as a member
out-group: a social group with which an individual does not identify