Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
An ingroup refers to a social group with which an individual identifies and feels a sense of belonging. It is typically characterized by shared interests, values, or characteristics.
This theory suggests that individuals derive part of their self-esteem from their membership in certain groups (such as ingroups) and tend to view members of outgroups less favorably.