One aspect that benefits in-group vs. out-group members is the helpers’ form of
identification. Simon, Stürmer, and Steffens (2000) investigated the differential effects of individual vs. collective identification on participants’ self reported willingness to volunteer for in-group vs. out-group members. Here, individual identification meant that individuals defined and understood their self as unique and individual beings, whereas collective identification meant that individuals defined and understood their self as part of a bigger group. The findings of Simon and colleagues portray that in-group volunteering was facilitated by collective identification, whereas out-group volunteering was facilitated through individual identification, but inhibited by collective identification. However, it has to be noted, that their results are based on self reported scores of willingness to volunteer.