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Similarity

Definition

In psychology, similarity refers to how much two people share common attitudes, backgrounds, interests or other characteristics.

Analogy

Consider similarity as having the same favorite flavor of ice cream. If you both love chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, you'll probably enjoy sharing it together and discussing why you love it so much!

Related terms

Homophily: This term describes the tendency for individuals to associate with others who share similar traits or interests - just like birds of a feather flocking together.

Matching Hypothesis: The theory that suggests individuals are attracted to others who are similar in physical attractiveness - akin to pairing socks based on color and pattern.

Social Identity Theory: A perspective asserting that individuals derive part of their self-concept from their social group memberships - think about how wearing your school's colors at a football game makes you feel part of the team.