Contact Hypothesis

Definition

The contact hypothesis suggests that increased contact between members of different social groups can reduce prejudice and improve intergroup relations. It proposes that when individuals from different groups interact with one another in positive and meaningful ways, it can challenge stereotypes, foster empathy, and promote understanding between the groups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The contact hypothesis suggests that for positive contact to reduce prejudice, the interaction must involve equal status between the groups, common goals, intergroup cooperation, and the support of authorities, law, or custom.
2. Positive contact is most effective when it challenges existing stereotypes and allows individuals to see members of the other group as unique individuals rather than just representatives of their group.
3. The quality of the contact, rather than just the quantity, is crucial in determining the effectiveness of the contact hypothesis in reducing prejudice.
4. The contact hypothesis has been widely studied and applied in various contexts, including racial integration, LGBTQ+ acceptance, and reducing prejudice towards individuals with disabilities.
5. Factors such as group salience, prior intergroup attitudes, and the broader social and political context can influence the effectiveness of the contact hypothesis in reducing prejudice.

Review Questions

• Explain how the contact hypothesis suggests that increased contact between members of different social groups can reduce prejudice.
  • The contact hypothesis proposes that when individuals from different social groups engage in positive and meaningful interactions, it can challenge existing stereotypes and foster empathy and understanding between the groups. The hypothesis suggests that for contact to be effective in reducing prejudice, the interaction must involve equal status between the groups, common goals, intergroup cooperation, and the support of authorities, law, or custom. By allowing individuals to see members of the other group as unique individuals rather than just representatives of their group, positive contact can help break down prejudiced attitudes and improve intergroup relations.
• Describe the role of the quality of contact in the effectiveness of the contact hypothesis.
  • The contact hypothesis emphasizes that the quality of the contact, rather than just the quantity, is crucial in determining its effectiveness in reducing prejudice. Positive contact that challenges existing stereotypes and allows individuals to see members of the other group as unique individuals is more likely to be successful in reducing prejudice than superficial or negative interactions. Factors such as the level of intergroup cooperation, the presence of common goals, and the support of authorities can all influence the quality of the contact and, in turn, the impact on prejudice reduction.
• Analyze how the broader social and political context can affect the application of the contact hypothesis in reducing prejudice.
  • The effectiveness of the contact hypothesis in reducing prejudice can be influenced by the broader social and political context. For example, in a climate of heightened intergroup tensions or societal polarization, the contact hypothesis may be less effective, as individuals may be more resistant to challenging their existing stereotypes and prejudiced attitudes. Conversely, in a more inclusive and accepting social environment, the contact hypothesis may be more readily applied and successful in promoting positive intergroup relations. Additionally, the support or opposition of authorities, laws, and social norms can either facilitate or hinder the implementation of the contact hypothesis and its ability to reduce prejudice between social groups.

Related terms

Intergroup Conflict:

Tension, hostility, and competition that arises between social groups, often due to perceived differences, limited resources, or conflicting goals.

Intergroup Cooperation: The process of members from different social groups working together towards a common goal, which can help reduce prejudice and promote positive intergroup relations.

Intergroup Anxiety: The feelings of unease, apprehension, and discomfort that individuals may experience when interacting with members of a different social group, which can hinder positive contact.