Question

Attempting to reduce prejudice by providing institutional help when bringing different groups together is suggested by

a) Contact hypothesis
b) Social facilitation
c) The mere exposure effect
d) Stereotype threat

Answer 1

The correct answer is option a) Contact hypothesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Reducing prejudice by bringing different groups together and assisting them institutionally aligns with the Contact Hypothesis. This hypothesis posits that under certain conditions, intergroup contact can effectively reduce prejudice. Preconditions include equal status among groups, common goals, intergroup cooperation, and institutional support for the engagement.

Examples of this approach in practice include the Robbers Cave experiment and the jigsaw classroom technique, both of which aim to unite individuals from different groups towards shared objectives, thereby lessening discriminatory attitudes. Supported by Pettigrew and Tropp's meta-analysis, the hypothesis reaffirms the positive impact of intergroup contact in settings of equality and collaboration.