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Disputing deindividuation: Why negative group behaviours derive from group norms, not group immersion
Stephen David Reicher1, Russell Spears2, Tom Postmes2
1School of Psychology and Neuroscience,University of St. Andrews,St. Andrews,Fife KY169JP,United Kingdomsdr@st-andrews.ac.ukhttps://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/psychology/people/?mode=profile&group=staff&user_id=sdr.
The Behavioral and Brain Sciences
|March 31, 2017
Summary
Strong social identity enhances group accountability by aligning behavior with group norms. Addressing problematic group conduct requires shifting group norms, not individualizing members, according to Social Identity Deindividuation Effects (SIDE) research.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Group Dynamics
- Sociology
Background:
- Traditional views often link strong social identity to reduced accountability and negative group behavior.
- The Social Identity Deindividuation Effects (SIDE) model offers an alternative perspective on group dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between social identity and accountability in group settings.
- To explore the role of group norms in moderating behavior within crowds.
- To propose effective strategies for managing problematic group behavior.
Main Methods:
- The study draws upon established theories and research within the SIDE tradition.
- Analysis involves examining relational dynamics and normative influences on group conduct.
- No new empirical data collection is described; the focus is on theoretical synthesis.
Main Results:
- Strong social identity does not inherently cause a lack of accountability or "bad" behavior.
- Group behavior is significantly driven by shared group norms when social identity is strong.
- Individualizing group members is not an effective solution for problematic group behavior.
Conclusions:
- The key to addressing negative group behavior lies in modifying group norms.
- Strengthening social identity can enhance adherence to positive group norms.
- Understanding relational dynamics within groups is crucial for effective intervention.
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