The Extended Contact Hypothesis: Reducing Prejudice through Indirect Relationships
Prejudice and negative attitudes towards out-groups have been persistent issues in society. Over the years, researchers have explored various strategies to address and reduce intergroup bias. One such strategy is the extended contact hypothesis, which suggests that knowledge of positive relationships between in-group members and out-group members can lead to reduced prejudice and improved attitudes towards the out-group. This article delves into the concept of the extended contact hypothesis, its effects on intergroup attitudes, its relationship with direct friendship, and the role of perception in its efficacy.
Definition
The extended contact hypothesis, first proposed by Wright et al. (1997), posits that individuals’ awareness of a positive relationship between members of their own group and members of an out-group can contribute to more favorable attitudes towards the out-group. In other words, indirect contact, through knowing about positive interactions between others, can have a positive impact on intergroup attitudes.
Effect on Intergroup Attitudes
Research examining the extended contact hypothesis has consistently shown that it can have a small-to-medium positive effect on intergroup attitudes. Studies have found that the aggregate relationship between extended contact and intergroup attitudes is approximately r = .25 (Cameron et al., 2018). This indicates a modest but meaningful association between knowledge of positive cross-group relationships and improved attitudes towards the out-group.
Relationship with Direct Friendship
One important aspect of the extended contact hypothesis is its relationship with direct friendship. While extended contact can influence intergroup attitudes independently of direct friendship, the effect is somewhat attenuated when direct friendship is not considered (Cameron et al., 2018). This suggests that direct personal relationships with out-group members have a stronger impact on reducing prejudice. However, the presence of extended contact still contributes to more positive attitudes towards the out-group, even in the absence of direct friendship.
Perception of Extended Contact
Interestingly, research highlights that the perception of extended contact, rather than actual contact, plays a crucial role in its effect on intergroup attitudes. Individuals’ beliefs and perceptions about the existence of positive cross-group relationships are influential in shaping their attitudes towards the out-group (Cameron et al., 2018). This suggests that even if individuals do not have direct knowledge of specific intergroup relationships, the mere belief in the presence of such relationships can lead to more positive attitudes.
Conclusion
The extended contact hypothesis offers valuable insights into the reduction of prejudice and improvement of intergroup attitudes. By recognizing the positive relationships between in-group and out-group members, individuals can develop more favorable attitudes towards the out-group. Although direct personal friendships have a stronger impact on intergroup attitudes, the presence of extended contact still plays a significant role. Moreover, individuals’ perceptions of extended contact, regardless of its actual occurrence, can shape their attitudes towards the out-group. Understanding the dynamics of extended contact can inform interventions and strategies aimed at promoting positive intergroup relations and reducing prejudice in society.
FAQs
What is the extended contact hypothesis?
The extended contact hypothesis proposes that knowing that someone from your own group has a positive relationship with someone from an out-group can reduce prejudice and improve attitudes towards that out-group.
How does extended contact affect intergroup attitudes?
Research has shown that extended contact can have a small-to-medium positive effect on intergroup attitudes. The aggregate relationship between extended contact and intergroup attitudes was found to be r = .25.
Is the effect of extended contact dependent on direct friendship?
The effect of extended contact on intergroup attitudes exists independently of direct friendship. However, the relationship between extended contact and intergroup attitudes is smaller when direct friendship is not considered.
How does perception influence the impact of extended contact?
The perception of extended contact, rather than actual contact, plays an important role in its effect on intergroup attitudes. This highlights the significance of individuals’ beliefs and perceptions about cross-group relationships.
Are there any limitations to the extended contact hypothesis?
While the extended contact hypothesis has been supported by research, it is important to note that the effects of extended contact can vary depending on various factors, such as the specific intergroup context and individuals’ pre-existing attitudes and beliefs.
Can extended contact be applied to different types of out-groups?
Yes, the extended contact hypothesis has been examined in relation to various out-groups, including racial, ethnic, religious, and LGBTQ+ groups. The underlying mechanism of extended contact can be applicable across different intergroup contexts.
How can the extended contact hypothesis be utilized in real-world settings?
The findings from research on the extended contact hypothesis can inform interventions and strategies aimed at promoting positive intergroup relations. For example, creating opportunities for individuals to learn about positive cross-group relationships and highlighting the benefits of intergroup interactions can be effective in reducing prejudice.
What are some future directions for research on the extended contact hypothesis?
While significant progress has been made in understanding the effects of extended contact, there are still areas that warrant further exploration. Future research can delve into the underlying mechanisms and boundary conditions of extended contact, as well as the long-term sustainability of its effects over time.