Which term describes "us"—people with whom we share a common identity?

The term that describes "us"—people with whom we share a common identity—is ingroup. This concept is central to social psychology and pertains to the individuals who identify as part of the same group, sharing similar characteristics, values, beliefs, or interests. Members of an ingroup typically feel a sense of belonging and loyalty towards one another, fostering strong social bonds and connections.

Ingroup dynamics can influence how individuals view themselves in relation to others, often resulting in more positive feelings and attitudes towards fellow ingroup members compared to those in the outgroup. The distinction between ingroup and outgroup is significant because it helps explain various social phenomena, including group behavior, conformity, and even bias and discrimination.

The other terms are not used to describe a shared sense of identity among a specific group of individuals. Outgroup refers to those who do not share the same identity or characteristics as the ingroup, discrimination pertains to unjust treatment based on group membership, and a stereotype involves oversimplified and generalized beliefs about a particular group. Each of these terms relates to social dynamics but does not capture the essence of a shared identity among members of a specific group like ingroup does.