How Scapegoating Fits into the Theory of Social Identity

20 May 2025

Have you ever noticed how people start blaming a single person or group whenever things go wrong? It happens everywhere, from workplaces to politics and even within families. This psychological phenomenon is known as scapegoating—and it plays a significant role in how we form social identities.

But why do we do it? And how does scapegoating fit into the broader theory of social identity? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What is Scapegoating?

Scapegoating is when a person or group is unfairly blamed for problems they didn’t cause. It’s like when a sports team loses a game, and everyone points fingers at just one player—ignoring the fact that it was a group effort.

Historically, entire communities have been scapegoated, often leading to serious consequences. From political leaders blaming minority groups during crises to office teams pinning failures on a single employee, scapegoating is deeply rooted in human psychology.

But why do we do this? This is where social identity theory comes into play.

Understanding Social Identity Theory

Social identity theory, developed by psychologists Henri Tajfel and John Turner in the 1970s, explains how people develop a sense of self based on the groups they belong to. We categorize ourselves and others into in-groups (our own group) and out-groups (others). This categorization impacts how we think, behave, and interact with others.

According to this theory, our self-esteem is closely tied to our group’s status. If our group is successful, we feel better about ourselves. But when things go wrong, we look for someone to blame—often an outsider or someone within the group who is perceived as weaker.

Why Does Scapegoating Happen?

Scapegoating doesn’t just appear out of nowhere—it happens for psychological and social reasons.

1. Boosting Group Morale

When a group faces failure or difficulty, blaming an outsider (or a weaker member) helps maintain collective self-esteem. It gives the rest of the group a sense of unity while avoiding self-reflection on what actually went wrong.

2. Reducing Anxiety

Uncertainty and fear make people uncomfortable. When things go sideways—be it economic downturns, political instability, or personal failures—people look for simple explanations. Blaming someone else offers a false sense of control over chaotic situations.

3. Strengthening In-Group Bonds

By identifying and blaming an out-group, the in-group strengthens its internal cohesion. This is commonly seen in political movements, where leaders unite their followers by rallying against a supposed enemy.

4. The Need for a Common Enemy

Having a common enemy gives people a sense of shared purpose. Throughout history, leaders have used this tactic to strengthen their power—convincing people that "our problems exist because of them."

Real-Life Examples of Scapegoating

1. Political Scapegoating

How often do we hear politicians blaming immigrants, the media, or opposition parties for society’s problems? It’s a classic strategy to rally support by creating an "us vs. them" mentality.

2. Workplace Scapegoating

In office environments, when a project fails, rather than addressing systemic issues, managers might blame a single employee. This not only deflects accountability but also discourages teamwork.

3. Family Scapegoating

Scapegoating isn’t just a societal issue—it happens within families too. Sometimes, one child is blamed for family troubles, even when they aren’t at fault. This dynamic can cause deep emotional wounds and lasting trauma.

4. Historical Scapegoating

Throughout history, groups have been unfairly blamed for economic downturns, pandemics, and wars. These scapegoated groups often suffer discrimination, violence, and even genocide.

The Psychological Effects of Scapegoating

While scapegoating may temporarily soothe group tensions, it leaves lasting scars on those who are unfairly blamed.

1. Low Self-Esteem

People who are scapegoated often internalize the blame, leading to feelings of worthlessness.

2. Anxiety & Depression

Constantly being blamed can cause serious mental health issues, leading to anxiety, depression, and even PTSD.

3. Social Isolation

The scapegoated individual may withdraw from social interactions, fearing judgment and rejection.

4. Reinforcing Prejudice

On a larger scale, scapegoating reinforces existing biases, leading to widespread discrimination and social divisions.

How to Break the Scapegoating Cycle

Understanding scapegoating is the first step toward breaking the cycle. Here’s how we can prevent it:

1. Encourage Self-Reflection

Rather than immediately blaming others when things go wrong, encourage honest self-reflection. Ask: What role did I or my group play in this situation?

2. Promote Accountability

Leaders—whether in politics, workplaces, or families—must take responsibility rather than shifting blame onto others.

3. Build Empathy

The more we understand different perspectives, the less likely we are to scapegoat. Practicing empathy helps us see the bigger picture rather than looking for a quick target.

4. Challenge Groupthink

Groupthink often leads to scapegoating. Encouraging diverse opinions and open discussions prevents knee-jerk blame and promotes fair decision-making.

5. Educate Others

Bringing awareness to how scapegoating operates helps people recognize when it’s happening. The more people understand this psychological trick, the less power it has.

Final Thoughts

Scapegoating is deeply woven into human nature and our social structures. It’s an easy way out—a quick fix to complex problems. But while it may temporarily boost group unity, its long-term effects are damaging.

By understanding how scapegoating fits into social identity theory, we can challenge its influence and create more fair, empathetic communities. Next time you see someone being unfairly blamed, pause and reflect—are we addressing the real issue, or are we just looking for a convenient scapegoat?