Group typicality, group loyalty and cognitive development

Br J Dev Psychol. 2014 Sep;32(3):252-4. doi: 10.1111/bjdp.12051. Epub 2014 Jun 16.

Abstract

Over the course of childhood, children's thinking about social groups changes in a variety of ways. Developmental Subjective Group Dynamics (DSGD) theory emphasizes children's understanding of the importance of conforming to group norms. Abrams et al.'s study, which uses DSGD theory as a framework, demonstrates the social cognitive skills underlying young elementary school children's thinking about group norms. Future research on children's thinking about groups and group norms should explore additional elements of this topic, including aspects of typicality beyond loyalty.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child Development / physiology*
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Group Processes*
  • Humans
  • Social Behavior*
  • Social Perception*