Chapter 17
Contact Strategies for Improving Intergroup Relations among Youth
Linda R. Tropp,
Ananthi Al Ramiah,
Linda R. Tropp
Search for more papers by this authorAnanthi Al Ramiah
Search for more papers by this authorLinda R. Tropp,
Ananthi Al Ramiah,
Linda R. Tropp
Search for more papers by this authorAnanthi Al Ramiah
Search for more papers by this authorBook Editor(s):Adam Rutland,
Drew Nesdale,
Christia Spears Brown,
Adam Rutland
Search for more papers by this authorDrew Nesdale
Search for more papers by this authorChristia Spears Brown
Search for more papers by this authorSummary
This chapter reviews classic and contemporary perspectives on intergroup contact, with a particular focus on research demonstrating the positive effects of intergroup contact among children and adolescents. It describes the ways in which individuals categorize themselves as group members, and how these categorizations can influence their experiences in intergroup contexts. The chapter emphasizes inclusive forms of categorization such as recategorization, and the powerful role recategorization can play in shaping intergroup attitudes. Optimal conditions for intergroup contact typically include: establishing equal status between groups within the contact situation; encouraging the groups to interact in a cooperative manner; having the groups work together toward common goals, and ensuring that the contact between groups is supported by institutional authorities, laws, or customs. Research evidence demonstrating the importance of these optimal conditions comes from meta-analytic and empirical studies. The chapter discusses some key roles that subjective, emotional processes play in intergroup contact effects.
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