As an adolescent, Travis comes out as gay. Following this, he withdraws from his heterosexual friends and promotes positions more radical than those he did formerly. He favors the "outing" of closeted public figures under all circumstances, and he argues that gays who wish to marry are imitating heterosexual values. Which account of prejudice does Travis's example illustrate?

Question

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Travis's behavior and attitudes are consistent with social identity theory, which suggests that individuals seek to enhance their self-esteem by identifying with groups that they perceive as superior to other groups. By coming out as gay, Travis has identified with the gay community and is promoting positions that distinguish the gay community from the heterosexual community, which he now sees as inferior. His radical positions and advocacy for outing closeted public figures are part of his desire to assert the superiority of his social identity.

As an Adolescent, Travis Comes Out as Gay