A Primer on Social Identity Theory
We all belong to groups – but we rarely notice how identity quietly shapes what we see, how we interpret others, and how we understand ourselves. This session explores social identities as a lens for understanding psychological categorization, and why some group markers become deeply charged. We’ll discuss how social identities influence judgment, attention, and communication, and how to build more flexible identities without erasing difference.

Understand how social identities shape perception, behavior, and social judgment
🧠 Social Identity Theory
🧠 Identity Salience
🧠 Social Categorization & Bias
☑️ Understand the central tenets of Social Identity Theory
☑️ Recognize identity salience and social categorization in everyday life
☑️ Explore how group identity shapes cognition
☑️ Learn strategies for building flexible, resilient identities
You’re facing identity-based tension
You want a better lens for understanding how people interpret each other
Democracy Advocates
Seeking deeper insight into how identity shapes division
DEI Practitioners
Navigating identity-based dynamics that influence belonging and bias
Social Movement Organizers
Seeking guidance for navigating identity differences
Political Campaigners
Needing to understand how identity shapes political judgment, trust, and civic engagement