When applied to collective behavior,social identity theory assumes that most collective behavior
A)is instinctive.
B)is uncharacteristic of the individuals in the situation.
C)occurs in situations where there is both an ingroup and an outgroup.
D)is against the law.
E)threatens individuals' definitions of who they are.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Social identity theory posits that collective behavior occurs in situations where there is both an ingroup (with which individuals identify) and an outgroup (against which the ingroup defines itself). Thus, option C is correct. Option A is incorrect because social identity theory does not assume that collective behavior is instinctive. Option B is incorrect because social identity theory assumes that individuals' behavior in groups is characteristic of their group identity rather than their individual identity, making it characteristic rather than uncharacteristic. Option D is incorrect because whether collective behavior is legal or illegal is irrelevant to social identity theory. Option E is incorrect because social identity theory assumes that individuals define themselves in terms of their group identity, and collective behavior is likely to reinforce that identity rather than threaten it.

When Applied to Collective Behavior,social Identity Theory Assumes That Most