Collective self and individual choice: The effects of inter-group comparative context on environmental values and behaviour
Research output: Contribution to journal › Journal article › Research › peer-review
Self-categorization theory suggests that inter-group comparisons inform individual behaviour by affecting perceived in-group stereotypes that are internalized by group members. The present paper provides evidence for this chain of effects in the domain of environmental behaviour. In two studies, inter-group comparative context was manipulated. Study 1 found that the perceived in-group stereotype, self-stereotype (as represented by the reported value centrality), and behavioural intentions shifted away from a comparison out-group (irrespective of whether this was an upward or downward comparison). Study 1 also revealed that the effect of comparative context on individual environmental intentions was mediated by the perceived in-group stereotype and by changes in personal values. Study 2 extrapolated the observed effect on actual behavioural choices. The findings demonstrate the utility of a self-categorization approach to individual behaviour change.
Original language | English |
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Journal | British Journal of Social Psychology |
Volume | 51 |
Issue number | 4 |
Pages (from-to) | 551-569 |
Number of pages | 19 |
ISSN | 0144-6665 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |
ID: 214452061