Testing Assumptions of the Developmental Subjective Group Dynamics Model on Ad Hoc Groups of Youth

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to test some of the assumptions of the Developmental Subjective Group Dynamics Model (Abrams, Rutland, & Cameron, 2003) on ad hoc groups of youth. The variables included were: a) differential evaluation; b) differential inclusion; c) intragroup bias; and d) group identification. It was assumed that the participants' age would moderate the relationship of intragroup bias and differential evaluation, while differential inclusion would be a mediator of this relationship. Furthermore, the moderation effect of group identification on the relationship of differential evaluation and differential inclusion was expected. The participants were students 12 to 16 years of age (N = 349). As assumed, the existence of differential evaluation, differential inclusion and intragroup bias was found. However, age had no moderating effect on the relationship between intragroup bias and differential evaluation. Intragroup bias had a direct effect on differential evaluation; however, this relationship was also mediated by differential inclusion. Furthermore, group identification moderated the relationship of differential inclusion and differential evaluation.