_________ refers to an individual's self-concept based on their membership in a group.

Social identity pertains to the various aspects of an individual's self-concept that are derived from their membership in social groups. This concept emphasizes the importance of group affiliations, such as those related to race, ethnicity, religion, and social class, in shaping an individual's identity. It suggests that a person’s perception of themselves is significantly influenced by the groups they belong to, leading to a sense of belonging and community.

The importance of social identity lies in how it can affect interpersonal relationships, group dynamics, and individual well-being. By recognizing this, practitioners and counselors can understand that people's experiences and interactions often reflect their social group memberships, which can be crucial when addressing issues related to identity, belonging, and discrimination.

In contrast, cultural identity encompasses a broader spectrum of meanings, often relating to shared traditions and practices, while personal identity focuses on individual characteristics and traits that distinguish one person from another. Ethnic identity is a more specific subset of social identity, centering specifically on an individual's ethnicity. Each of these concepts contributes to the understanding of identity, but social identity is the most encompassing in terms of group membership influences.