Reynolds, Katherine JTurner, John CHaslam, S A2015-12-132015-12-130022-3514http://hdl.handle.net/1885/89104The Australian National University This article argues that in-group favoritism occurs on positive and negative dimensions only when the dimensions of comparison provide an appropriate and meaningful basis for self-other definition, that is, when traits comparatively and normatively fit in-group-out-group categorizations. Three studies are reported in which groups were evaluated on positive or negative traits that varied in their degree of normative fit to in-group and out-group identity. In line with predictions, fit rather than stimulus valence was the crucial determinant of (a) in-group favoritism and (b) absolute level of differentiation between groups. Implications of the findings for explanations of positive-negative asymmetry and broader understandings of intergroup discrimination are discussed.Keywords: adult; analysis of variance; article; comparative study; decision making; female; human; male; perception; social behavior; social psychology; Adult; Analysis of Variance; Female; Humans; Judgment; Male; Prejudice; Social Identification; Social Perception20002015-12-12