Downplaying a compromised social image: The effect of metastereotype valence on social identification

Owuamalam, Chuma K.; Zagefka, Hanna

Abstract

This research examined the prediction that group members' levels of identification with the in-group would be influenced by the valence of salient metastereotypes. Specifically, we expected those group members who activate negative metastereotypes to report lower levels of identification with the in-group compared with those who activate positive metastereotypes. We further expected the above effect to be mediated by fluctuations in self-view: Those group members who activate negative metastereotypes should experience lowered self-view (or self-esteem), which would then lead them to downplay their membership of the negatively valued in-group. In addition, we expected this mediated effect to be particularly visible among those who were less strongly identified with the in-group to begin with. Results obtained across two studies in which metastereotype valence was manipulated support the predicted main effect and the moderated mediation hypothesis. Discussions highlight the need for a positive social image when concern about the negative connotations of one's social group membership is raised.

Citation

Owuamalam, C. K., & Zagefka, H. (2011). Downplaying a compromised social image: The effect of metastereotype valence on social identification. European Journal of Social Psychology, 41(4), 528-537. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejsp.805

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 5, 2011
• Online Publication Date: May 24, 2011
• Publication Date: 2011-06
• Deposit Date: Dec 6, 2023
• Journal: European Journal of Social Psychology
• Print ISSN: 0046-2772
• Electronic ISSN: 1099-0992
• Publisher: Wiley
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 41
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 528-537
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ejsp.805
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1983780