Similarity-attraction functions as an implicit shield for self-esteem

Evidence

For example, by helping to assure that one’s acquaintances will express agreeable views, the similarity-attraction effect protects against exposure to opinion disagreements that might undermine confidence in the wisdom of one’s opinions. — Anthony G. Greenwald and Mahzarin R. Banaji, Implicit Social Cognition, 165

Categorization

• XREF: Echoes confirmation-bias and selective-exposure literatures as group-defense mechanisms in the MOC. — connects to: Similarity-attraction operates by linking the stranger to the self — Anthony G. Greenwald and Mahzarin R. Banaji, Implicit Social Cognition: Attitudes,…, 131; Basking in reflected glory and downward comparison are complementary affiliation strategies for self-esteem. — Anthony G. Greenwald and Mahzarin R. Banaji, Implicit Social Cognition: Attitudes,…, 161; Affiliation and rejection behaviors function as second-order boosts to self-esteem. — Anthony G. Greenwald and Mahzarin R. Banaji, Implicit Social Cognition: Attitudes,…, 162 (+5 more)

Broader Connections

• Downward and intraclass comparisons protect the self-esteem of low-status groups #exemplifies (0.82)
• Attributing negative feedback to prejudice protects rather than damages self-esteem #exemplifies (0.78) — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1066
• Attributing disadvantage to structural causes rather than personal character protects self-esteem. #exemplifies (0.78) — John F. Dovidio, Peter Glick, Laurie A. Rudman, On the Nature of Prejudice, 1070
• Attributing disadvantage to systemic bias predicts positive self-esteem. #exemplifies (0.76) — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1070
• Stigmatized individuals protect self-esteem by disengaging from feedback in negatively stereotyped domains #exemplifies (0.75) — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 966