contact theory and reducing prejudice

1. Contact Hypothesis

Contact Hypothesis

• Direct interaction between opposing groups reduces prejudice under specific conditions:

  • Equal status between groups

  • Cooperative interaction

  • Common (shared) goals

  • Institutional support (authority endorses cooperation)

Core idea: Prejudice is not fixed; it is situationally constructed and can be reduced through structured interaction.

2. Robbers Cave Study

Muzafer Sherif

Phase 1: Group Formation

• Boys randomly assigned to two groups.

• Each group developed identity and cohesion independently.

Phase 2: Conflict

• Competitive activities introduced (e.g., games, rewards).

• Result:

  • In-group favoritism

  • Out-group hostility

  • Stereotyping and discrimination

Phase 3: Resolution

• Introduced superordinate goals (shared problems requiring cooperation).

• Examples: fixing water supply, pulling a truck.

• Result:

  • Reduced hostility

  • Increased cooperation

  • Breakdown of prejudice

3. Superordinate Goals

Superordinate Goals

• Goals that cannot be achieved alone.

• Force interdependence.

• Override group divisions.

4. Jigsaw Classroom

Jigsaw Classroom

Structure:

• Students split into “expert groups” → each learns part of material.

• Reassigned into “jigsaw groups” → each member teaches their part.

Outcomes:

• Increased cooperation and interdependence

• Reduced prejudice

• Improved self-esteem (especially marginalized groups)

• Equalized academic performance

5. Mechanism of Prejudice Reduction

• Contact alone is insufficient.

• Effective reduction requires:

  • Mutual reliance

  • Equal contribution

  • Shared success outcomes

6. Core Synthesis

• Group conflict arises from competition + identity formation.

• Prejudice decreases through structured cooperation and shared goals.

• Social divisions are malleable, not inherent.