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reference group

a group or social aggregate that individuals use as a standard or frame of reference when selecting and appraising their own abilities, attitudes, or beliefs. Reference groups include formal and informal groups that the individual identifies with and admires, statistical aggregations of noninteracting individuals, imaginary groups, and even groups that deny the individual membership. See also aspirational group; social comparison theory. Compare membership group.

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

bizarreness effect

bizarreness effect

see distinctiveness effect.