Social identity, social influence, and response to potentially stressful situations

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay between group identification and source membership in influencing perceived stress levels during challenging tasks. Drawing from self-categorization and social influence theories, two experiments were conducted.In Study 1, participants exposed to a video where the task was portrayed as stressful reported higher stress levels when the task was presented by an ingroup member compared to an outgroup member. However, in the "challenge" condition, where the task was seen as stimulating rather than stressful, no differences in perceived stress were observed between ingroup and outgroup sources.Study 2 further explored the role of group identification and source membership on perceived stress. Results revealed that higher group identification led to increased perceived stress levels, but only when the source was an ingroup member.These findings underscore the intricate relationship between self-categorization and social influence. They highlight that perceived stress levels in challenging situations are influenced by group identity and source membership, particularly when the source is perceived as an ingroup member. However, in situations where the task is perceived as a challenge rather than a threat, this influence may diminish.The study contributes to our understanding of social psychology and the complex dynamics involved in how individuals respond to challenging situations in a social context, offering implications for further research in this area.