Social identity approach, which includes self-categorization theory, assumed that we are categorizing ourselves into a group, which triggers the depersonalization process. Therefore, we have a redefinition of the self in terms of group membership. The categorization mostly bases on similarities (physical appearance, norms, past experiences, etc.). Naturally, we have a tendency to create an in-group/out-group through the categorization process. Previous studies indicate a difference in eye-gaze behavior through prejudiced other race and own race. Found that, White Caucasians’ eye-gaze behavior mostly followed a T-like pattern (fixating more on eyes) for White Caucasian faces, and mouth for the Black faces. However, some groups cannot be detected easily from their physical appearance. The aim of the present study is to investigate the physical appearance similarity on the eye gaze behavior around the face, depending on the saliency of the ethnic identity (by labeling) (N = 34). Results indicated that people’s eye-gaze pattern mostly goes around on out-group’s mouth more than the t-zone .

The categorization of perceived threat: Prototypicality of in-group and out-group