What concept examines the influence of social groups on individual behavior?

The concept that examines the influence of social groups on individual behavior is social identity theory. This theory posits that a person’s self-concept and behavior are strongly influenced by their membership in social groups. It suggests that individuals categorize themselves and others into various social groups (e.g., based on race, nationality, or other characteristics), which can impact their behavior, attitudes, and perceptions.

Social identity theory highlights the importance of group membership in shaping interpersonal dynamics. It explains that individuals derive a sense of pride and self-esteem from their social groups, which can lead to in-group favoritism and out-group discrimination. This underscores the significant role that social contexts play in shaping individual behaviors, framing our understanding of how belonging to a group can directly affect actions and attitudes.

The other concepts, while significant in their own right, focus on different aspects of social psychology. Social norm theory pertains to the unwritten rules and expectations that guide behavior in specific contexts, while groupthink addresses the phenomenon where a group prioritizes consensus over critical reasoning, potentially leading to poor decision-making. Attribution theory deals with how individuals explain causes of behavior—either their own or others’—rather than examining the broader influence of social groups.