Chapter three - Implicit Theories Shape Intergroup Relations

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Abstract

It is often assumed that improving intergroup relations is simply a matter of directly addressing prejudice. In this chapter, we show that this is not the case. Instead, we illuminate through our research how implicit theories give rise to prejudice and how they disrupt intergroup relations even in people who are low in prejudice. In particular, we demonstrate that those who believe that people have fixed attributes (an entity theory) are more likely to form, invest in, and act on stereotypes, and are more likely to show problematic intergroup relations above and beyond their level of prejudice compared to those who believe that people are capable of change (an incremental theory). These compromised intergroup relations are shown for both majority-group and minority-group members. This chapter sheds new light on the processes that drive intergroup relations and suggests a novel path to improving intergroup relations—changing implicit theories.

Section snippets

What are implicit theories?

Implicit theories are people's beliefs about the nature of human attributes. People differ substantially and meaningfully in the beliefs they hold about human characteristics. While most people may agree on the basic principles that are the foundation of the physical world (e.g., gravity), there is much more variation in people's understanding of the basic principles of the social world—of the workings and characteristics of people and groups. Research on implicit theories focuses specifically

Implicit Theories and Intergroup Relations

More and more research is revealing the important role that implicit theories play in people's behaviors in intergroup settings—the behavior that emerges when “individuals belonging to one group interact, collectively or individually, with another group or its members in terms of their group identification” (Sherif, 1966; p. 12). As ethnic and racial diversity increases in societies like the United States, intergroup interactions become increasingly important and virtually inevitable (Feagin &

Broader Lessons and Implications for Intergroup Relations

Despite the rise in norms of egalitarianism and despite a decline in overt prejudice, intergroup relations have sadly remained threatening and uncomfortable (e.g., Mendes et al., 2002, Richeson and Trawalter, 2005, Shelton, 2003, Shelton and Richeson, 2006, Trawalter and Richeson, 2008, Trawalter et al., 2009, Vorauer et al., 1998). The findings reviewed here bring a fresh theoretical perspective to the study of intergroup relations, enriching our understanding of these relations. Much previous

Conclusion

Research on implicit theories is enriching our theoretical understanding of the nature of stereotyping, bias, and intergroup relations. The practical implications are clear and hopeful. Fostering a belief in the malleability of people and their attributes has the potential to reduce stereotyping, diminish the power of stereotypes, increase intergroup contact, and create a better climate for intergroup relations. Of course, as we academics are fond of saying, more research is needed, and it is

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