Self-categorization theory

Self-categorization theory is a way of understanding how people form social identities. It says that when people come together in groups, they will come to see themselves in terms of the group. For example, when you go to a new school, you may start to think of yourself as a student of that school, even though you are still your own person. This can help us feel like we belong to a group, and also helps us to make sense of the world around us.