When similarity breeds content: need for closure and the allure of homogeneous and self-resembling groups

J Pers Soc Psychol. 2002 Sep;83(3):648-62. doi: 10.1037//0022-3514.83.3.648.

Abstract

Four studies explored the relation between members' need for cognitive closure and their feelings toward groups. It was found that high (vs. low) need for closure individuals liked in-groups and out-groups more as function of the degree to which their membership was perceived as homogeneous (Studies 1-4), provided it was also self-similar (Studies 3 and 4). These results are discussed in terms of the relation between need for closure and homogeneous (vs. heterogeneous) groups' apparent potential as "closure providers."

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Cognition*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Italy
  • Male
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Regression Analysis
  • Social Desirability*
  • Social Identification*
  • Social Perception*
  • Stereotyping
  • United States