Which of the following statements about outgroups in social psychology is correct?

• A. Outgroups are always viewed positively by members of the ingroup.
• B. Outgroups refer to the group an individual identifies with most strongly.
• C. Outgroups are groups to which an individual does not belong and often perceives as different from their own group.
• D. Outgroups are defined as groups that share the same norms and values as the ingroup.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of 'ingroup' and 'outgroup' in social psychology. An ingroup is the group with which an individual identifies and feels a sense of belonging.
2. Step 2: Recognize that an outgroup is any group to which the individual does not belong and is often perceived as different or distinct from the ingroup.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the statements by comparing them to the definitions: Outgroups are not necessarily viewed positively; they are simply groups outside the individual's own group.
4. Step 4: Note that outgroups do not share the same norms and values as the ingroup by definition, which is why they are perceived as different.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is the one that defines outgroups as groups to which an individual does not belong and often perceives as different from their own group.