Exam 3 Intergroup Bias

What does the research on minimal group paradigms tell us?

Minimal group paradigm: a method for examining the minimal conditions necessary for discrimination and intergroup bias to occur.

Results: participants preferred their own group over others even based on minimal classifications.

How does intergroup bias map onto the 3 elements of attitudes?

1. Prejudice (affective): negative feelings or emotions towards a person based on group membership.

2. Stereotypes (cognitive): a set of beliefs about the attributes shared by a group.

3. Discrimination (behavioral): a negative or harmful action toward a person because of their group membership.

What are illusory correlations?

How might they serve to create or reinforce stereotypes?

The perception of a relationship where none exists (or a stronger relationship than actually exists). It occurs when 2 unlikely events happen together.

Ex: It always snow storms when I wash the car.

How can differences between groups be the products of self-fulfilling prophecies?

When schemas influence behavior and perceptions, we often end up confirming our existing beliefs in ourselves and others (confirmation bias and self-fulfilling prophecies).

*We are less familiar with out-group members and thus more likely to make broad categorizations, assuming that they are more similar to stereotypes.

How does individual variation compare to group differences?

*Stereotypes cause us to view people in other groups as much more similar than members of our own groups. More motivated to individuate ingroup members.

*Differences exist between ingroup members.

What is the process by which we categorize people and apply stereotype threat?

Under what conditions is it more or less likely to occur?

1. attentional to category-relevant features

2. categorize as member of social group

3. stereotype is activated

4. stereotype is applied

Likely to occur when someone believes that a stereotype exists of the group they are a part of.

Less likely to occur when we control it, requiring ability and motivation.

Does discrimination need to be intentional?

No. Why?

Discrimination is behavioral, and underlying reason does not matter for it to be considered.

What is the role of ambiguity when it comes to discrimination?

Ambiguity provides the most opportunity for people in engage in “hidden” discrimination.

What is meant by common in-group identity model?

A broad category that includes people who belong to other social groups.

What is contact theory?

What are important conditions for making it effective?

What do each condition mean?

Positive interactions between people from different social groups should reduce bias.

1. Common goals: a desirable objective of mutual value

2. Joint cooperation: groups work together toward the goal

3. Equal status: hierarchies reinforce differences, and equal footing highlights similarity

4. Support from authority: contact and cooperation encouraged from the top down.

What are limitations around contact theory as a concept?

People tend to self-segregate across many important social identities.

Not all interactions are positive.

Negative interactions can serve to reinforce stereotypes.