Group differentiations are fluid and shaped by factors beyond actual membership

Evidence

Considerable research suggests that among other features, in-group members share a common identity, interdependent group norms, collective group goals, and common experiences (Blanz, Mummendey, & Otten, 1997; Brewer & Campbell, 1976; Campbell, 1958; Gaertner & Schopler, 1998; Lickel et al., 2000; Sherif, 1965, 1966, 1996; Welbourne, 1999). However, while there is little doubt that we differentiate among groups, there also is little doubt that these differentiations may be quite fluid and affected by a host of factors over and above those directly relevant to group membership. The adoption of a one-variable-at-a-time mentality can obstruct consideration of other common factors that moderate social interaction. — Roderick M. Kramer, Geoffrey J. Leonardelli, Robert W. Livingston, Social Cognition, Social Identity, and…, 1375

Categorization

• XREF: The ‘fluidity of differentiations’ and critique of one-variable-at-a-time methodology resonates with the Allport reassessment thread on interactionist vs unidimensional accounts of prejudice.
• corroborated: 2 independent passages support this claim — Roderick M. Kramer, Geoffrey J. Leonardelli, Robert W. Livingston, Social Cognition, Social Identity, and…, 1375