Those categories that align most the perceived relations between self and others - "in terms of normative fit or content" (Oakes et. al 1991). Individuals use personal theories and perspectives on what social categories are "supposed to be like" based on their background knowledge and experiences (Murphy and Medin 1985)

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Members within a group must not just be more similar with each-other than different from other groups (comparative fit).  They must also have the similarities and differences that are consistent with our beliefs and theories about the particular group (the perceived social meaning of the social category)

Normative fit of self-categorization

Turner, J. C., Oakes, P. J., Haslam, S. A., & McGarty, C. (1994). Self and collective: Cognition and social context. Personality and social psychology bulletin, 20(5), 454-463.

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