On the behavioral consequences of infrahumanization: the implicit role of uniquely human emotions in intergroup relations.
Four experiments confirmed the hypothesis that people discriminate the out-group on the basis of the expression of uniquely human emotions. In Study 1, using a lost e-mail paradigm, the expression of a uniquely human emotion resulted in "nicer" replies when the sender was an in-group compared with an out-group member. The same pattern of results was obtained in Studies 2 and 3 using a conformity paradigm. In addition, perceived similarity was measured and proposed as a potential underlying mechanism (Study 3). Finally, using an approach-avoidance procedure, Study 4 showed that people not only deprive the out-group of positive consequences as in the former studies but that people also act against the out-group. The role of infrahumanization underlying prejudice and discrimination is discussed.
Vaes
Jeroen
J
Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization, University of Padova, Padova, Italy. jeroen.vaes@unipd.it
Paladino
Maria Paola
MP
Castelli
Luigi
L
Leyens
Jacques-Philippe
JP
Giovanazzi
Anna
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D034742:Electronic Mail; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006808:Humanism; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D011287:Prejudice; D012925:Social Conformity; D012928:Social Desirability; D012933:Social Identification; D012945:Social Values