Describe the characteristics of the social identity theory. ...

[j.rubin]

Describe the characteristics of the social identity theory.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

The second stage of the five-stage group development model is characterized by ________.
 
  A) uncertainty about the purpose, structure, and leadership of the group
  B) cohesiveness and close relationships among members of the group
  C) strong feelings of group identity among members of the group
  D) intragroup conflict within the group
  E) pride in the accomplishments of the group

[jaygar71]

Answer to Question 1

Our tendency to take personal pride or offense for the accomplishments of a group is the territory of social identity theory. Social identity theory proposes that people have emotional reactions to the failure or success of their group because their self-esteem gets tied into the group's performance. The theory has the following characteristics:
Similarity: It refers to the tendency of people who have greater uniformity in values and characteristics to have greater identification as well.
Distinctiveness: It refers to the tendency of ingroup members to notice and emphasize identities that reflect how they are different from other groups.
Status: It refers to the tendency of people to link themselves to groups of higher social standing in an attempt to define themselves favorably.
Uncertainty reduction: It refers to the tendency of people to link themselves to groups of higher social standing in an attempt to define themselves favorably.

Answer to Question 2

D
Explanation: D) The second stage, called the storming stage, is one of intragroup conflict. Members accept the existence of the group but resist the constraints it imposes on individuality. There is conflict over who will control the group.