Factors affecting social categorization processes in memory

In this article the literature on social categorization effects on memory is reviewed and, on the basis of Oakes (1987), a theoretical framework explaining these effects is presented. Furthermore, an experiment is reported in which the effects of relevance and fit on categorization in memory were studied. Subjects viewed a simulated discussion between stimulus persons who were classified into two crossed social categorizations, viz. male/female and student/teacher. Independent variables were relevance of categorization for discussion topic, and fit between categorization and expressed attitude position of stimulus persons. The dependent variable was the frequency of intra‐versus inter‐category confusions between stimulus persons in memory. As hypothesized: (1) intracategory confusions occurred more often than inter‐category confusions; (2) in general male/female categorizations were stronger than student/teacher categorizations; (3) discussion topic facilitated the use of the pertinent categorization; (4) fit between category and attitude position of the source enhanced the use of the categorization involved; and (5) source confusions appeared to be related to stereotypical stimulus group attitudes.