What is the term for the belief that outgroup members are perceived as more similar to one another than in-group members?

The belief that outgroup members are perceived as more similar to one another than in-group members is known as the outgroup homogeneity effect. This phenomenon occurs when individuals view members of their own group as diverse and varied, while simultaneously seeing members of an outgroup as more uniform or homogeneous.

This perception can lead to stereotypes and generalized beliefs about outgroup members, which can have significant social implications, such as prejudice or discrimination. In contrast, people tend to recognize the unique characteristics and differences among those who belong to their own group, showcasing an inherent bias that arises from social categorization processes.

Understanding the outgroup homogeneity effect is vital as it informs how we perceive others in social contexts and contributes to intergroup dynamics, helping to explain why prejudice may become entrenched in societal interactions. The other options, while related to social psychology and group dynamics, do not specifically address the perception of similarity among outgroup members in the same way.