Social Identity

Social identity refers to the way individuals define themselves based on their membership in various social groups, such as race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or occupation. It is shaped by the norms, values, and beliefs of these groups, as well as the individual’s perception of their role and status within them. As explained in the book “Social Identity Theory” by Henri Tajfel and John Turner, social identity is “that part of an individual’s self-concept which derives from his knowledge of his membership in a social group (or groups) together with the value and emotional significance attached to that membership.”

Self Identity

On the other hand, self-identity, also known as personal identity, is an individual’s unique sense of who they are, their personality traits, values, beliefs, and goals that are separate from their social identities.

It is a more internal and subjective concept, shaped by personal experiences, relationships, and self-reflection. In the book “The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life” by Erving Goffman, self-identity is described as “the personality that an individual projects in all situations and at all times.”

The key difference between social identity and self-identity lies in their sources and influences. Social identity is derived from an individual’s membership in social groups and the associated norms and expectations,

while self-identity is a more personal and introspective concept that reflects an individual’s unique personality, values, and beliefs.

It’s important to note that social identity and self-identity are not mutually exclusive; they can influence and shape each other. An individual’s self-identity may be influenced by their social identities, and their social identities may be influenced by their self-identity. However, they are distinct concepts that play different roles in an individual’s overall sense of self.

In summary, social identity refers to an individual’s sense of belonging to various social groups and the associated norms and expectations, while self-identity is a more personal and introspective concept that reflects an individual’s unique personality, values, and beliefs.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between social identity and self-identity in a concise manner:

AspectSocial IdentitySelf-Identity
DefinitionHow an individual defines themselves based on their membership in social groupsAn individual’s unique sense of who they are, their personality traits, values, and beliefs
SourceDerived from group membership and associated norms, values, and expectationsDerived from personal experiences, relationships, and self-reflection
NatureExternal, based on social categorization and rolesInternal, based on individual traits and characteristics
InfluenceShaped by group dynamics, social status, and intergroup relationsShaped by personal growth, self-awareness, and introspection
ManifestationConformity to group norms, stereotypes, and behaviorsExpression of unique personality, individuality, and authenticity
ExamplesRacial, ethnic, religious, gender, or occupational identitiesIntroversion, ambition, creativity, resilience, or ethical beliefs

In essence, social identity is primarily influenced by external factors and group dynamics, while self-identity is more internal and shaped by personal experiences and self-reflection.

References:

  • Hogg, M. A., & Abrams, D. (1988). Social identifications: A social psychology of intergroup relations and group processes. London: Routledge.
  • Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (1979). An integrative theory of intergroup conflict. In W. G. Austin & S. Worchel (Eds.), The social psychology of intergroup relations (pp. 33-47). Monterey, CA: Brooks/Cole.
  • Goffman, E. (1959). The presentation of self in everyday life. New York: Anchor Books.
Self Identity