The influence of our self-perceptions affects our attributions and perceptions of people.
One of the most salient examples of the importance of self-perception is the influence of group identity. Recall reference groups which provide their members with a set of values and beliefs. The ideas imparted by a reference group can include particular viewpoints on other people and groups. Perceiving oneself as part of a particular group may result in the adoption of that group’s perceptions of others. In-group identification also leads to comparisons between in-group and out-group members, where in-group members are viewed more positively and are thought to have greater variability on assorted personality traits than out-group members.