Vooroordelen tegenover vluchtelingen: de effecten interetnisch contact en ingroup identificatie

Abstract

Previous research has found a positive influence of intergroup contact in reducing prejudice. The aim of this study is to investigate how intergroup contact is related to reduced prejudice. This research has been implemented through a sample of Dutch citizens measuring their attitudes towards a group in society, who have recently been found a major topic in public debate, namely refugees. In this context, two explanatory mechanisms are examined in the relationship between intergroup contact and prejudice. For the first time, a combination of negative stereotypes and ‘dual conception of superordinate belonging’ have been examined as mechanisms in this particular relationship. Additionally to intergroup contact, the extent to which respondents identified with their ethnic ingroup has been included in this research as a predictor of prejudice. The results from the survey study (N=201) found a significant effect of perceived negative intergroup contact on prejudice towards refugees via ‘dual conception of superordinate belonging’. Apart from this association, findings did not indicate a significant mediating role for the explanatory mechanisms examined in this study. Furthermore, ingroup identification, intergroup contact and negative stereotypes have been found to influence prejudice towards refugees. Ingroup identification and negative stereotypes were positively related to prejudice, whereas intergroup contact was negative related to prejudice towards refugees. Limitations and implications of these findings are discussed.