In sociology, what does “social identity” refer to?

Social identity refers to the way individuals define themselves in relation to the groups they are a part of. This includes various categories such as nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, and other social groups. Group membership is essential because it shapes how individuals perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others, influencing their beliefs, behaviors, and interactions within society.

The concept emphasizes that individuals often derive part of their identity from the social groups to which they belong. This idea aligns with the sociological understanding of identity as not merely a personal or individual construct, but one that is deeply interwoven with social structures and cultural contexts. Therefore, group membership is a critical element in understanding social identity, as it frames both personal identity formation and social dynamics at large.