Socio-Structural Intergroup Characteristics as Predictors of Intention to Join University Alumni Association

Abstract

We examined the association between socio-structural intergroup characteristics (i.e., permeability of group
boundaries, legitimacy of status difference between ingroup and outgroups, stability of status difference) and
students’ intention to join the university alumni association. Prior theory and research suggests that group members
assess the intergroup context to direct identity management strategies (e.g., leave group, collective action). College
students in their last semester at a university were asked to rate the perceived socio-structural characteristics of the
ingroup (compared to other universities) and their intention to join the alumni association. The results showed that
perceiving one’s ingroup as legitimately high status and in a stable intergroup context predicted greater intention to
join the alumni association. Consistent with prior theory, the results suggest that viewing one’s ingroup as
legitimately high status predicts endorsement of actions to maintain a positive and distinct identity.