Similarity as a source of differentiation: the role of group identification

The present research examines the relation between perceived intergroup dis tinctiveness and positive intergroup differentiation. It was hypothesised t hat the distinctiveness-differentiation relation is a function of group ide ntification. In two studies group distinctiveness was varied and level of i dentification was either measured (Study 1) or manipulated (Study 2). Resul ts support the prediction that low group distinctiveness leads to more posi tive differentiation for high identifiers, although we found less support f or the prediction that increased group distinctiveness leads to enhanced po sitive differentiation for low identifiers. The difference in emphasis betw een social identity theory and self-categorisation theory concerning the di stinctiveness-differentiation relation is discussed and the importance of g roup identification as a critical factor of this relationship is stressed. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.