Positive social identity can be achieved without derogating out-groups

Evidence

Although both the social identity and the optimal distinctiveness approaches underscore the importance of positive social identity needs, Tajfel’s theory appears to appeal to motives to establish in-group positivity through intergroup social comparisons (against an out-group). Conversely, optimal distinctiveness theory suggests that the motivational dimension for social identity is established primarily through a positive distinctiveness process that does not necessitate derogation of out-groups. Further, Brewer’s model proposes that individuals may make the trade-off to abandon positive enhancement and social comparisons if given the opportunity to establish distinctiveness. — Roderick M. Kramer, Geoffrey J. Leonardelli, Robert W. Livingston, Social Cognition, Social Identity, and…, 1413

Categorization

• XREF: Complicates the Allport reassessment thread: offers a mechanism model where identity needs are met without out-group hostility, a counterpoint to prejudice-as-identity-defense readings.
• QUESTION: Empirically, how often does the distinctiveness trade-off actually abandon out-group comparison in real intergroup settings versus laboratory ones?
• corroborated: 3 independent passages support this claim — Roderick M. Kramer, Geoffrey J. Leonardelli, Robert W. Livingston, Social Cognition, Social Identity, and…, 1413