Social Identity

FGCU Housing. (2021, January 11). Social identities and the Big 8 [Video]. YouTube.

• Social identity is defined as a person's sense of self based on their group memberships, which fosters a sense of belonging to the social world. These group memberships can include social class, gender, religion, and more.

• The Big Eight identities are outlined, including race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, religion/spirituality, nationality, and socioeconomic status.

• Race is described as socially defined but based on physical criteria such as skin color and facial features.

• Ethnicity encompasses culture, language, and country of origin.

• Sexual identity refers to emotional, romantic, sexual, spiritual, and affectional attraction, independent of gender identity.

• Gender identity is defined as how individuals see themselves, which may or may not align with conventional expectations based on their birth sex.

• Ability refers to the physical or mental capacity to perform daily tasks.

• Religion/spirituality includes institutionalized or personal systems of beliefs and practices related to the divine.

• Age is categorized based on societal perceptions of different age groups.

• Socioeconomic status is determined by income and/or position in society.

• The importance of social identities is highlighted, as they allow individuals to be part of groups and gain a sense of belonging. Group membership influences how individuals perceive themselves, affecting their confidence, satisfaction, and sense of respect. The more one identifies with a particular group, the more significant that group's role is in shaping self-perception.