Comparing direct and imagined intergroup contact among children: Effects on outgroup stereotypes and helping intentions

Publication Year
2015

Type

Journal Article
Abstract

We conducted an experimental intervention aimed at comparing the effectiveness of direct and imagined intergroup contact. Italian elementary school children took part in a three-week intervention with dependent variables assessed one week after the last intervention session. Results revealed that direct and imagined intergroup contact, compared to control conditions of direct and imagined intragroup contact, had an additive impact when it came to reducing negative stereotypes of immigrants and fostering future helping intentions toward this group. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.

Journal
International Journal of Intercultural Relations
Volume
49
Pages
46–53
Type of Article
Journal Article
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