JM

Sociocultural Key Terms

  1. Social Identity Theory – The idea that people derive part of their identity from the groups they belong to, leading to in-group favoritism and out-group discrimination. 


  1. Social Cognitive Theory – Explains how people learn behaviors through observation, imitation, and modeling. Emphasizes the role of reinforcement and self-efficacy. 


  1. Stereotype – A generalized belief about a group of people that influences perception and behavior. Can be positive or negative. 


  1. Cultural Dimensions – A framework developed by Hofstede that explains how cultures vary in values and behaviors. Examples include: 

  • Individualism vs. Collectivism (focus on self vs. group)

  • Power Distance (acceptance of hierarchy) 


  1. Enculturation – The process by which individuals learn and adopt the behaviors, norms, and values of their own culture. 


  1. Acculturation – The process of cultural change and adaptation when individuals are exposed to a new culture. Can involve assimilation, integration, separation, or marginalization.