Being similar versus being equal: intergroup similarity moderates the influence of in-group norms on discrimination and prejudice.
In two studies, we examined the influence of in-group norms of anti- and pro-discrimination on prejudice and discrimination as a function of intergroup similarity (Studies 1 and 2) and in-group identification (Study 2). In a condition where there was no information about intergroup similarity (Study 1) or intergroup similarity was low (Study 2), prejudice and discrimination were lower when norms prescribe anti-discrimination compared to pro-discrimination. In contrast, when intergroup similarity was high, prejudice and discrimination were higher when the in-group norm represents anti-discrimination compared to pro-discrimination. This pattern was most apparent among highly identified in-group members (Study 2). The paradoxical effect of the anti-discrimination norm in the high similarity condition is interpreted as a response to the threat this situation introduces to in-group distinctiveness.
Gabarrot
Fabrice
F
University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. Fabrice.Gabarrot@pse.unige.ch
Falomir-Pichastor
Juan M
JM
Mugny
Gabriel
G
D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D017522:Bosnia and Herzegovina / Q000208:ethnology; D054242:Emigrants and Immigrants / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007062:Identification, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011287:Prejudice; D012649:Self Concept; D012933:Social Identification; D012938:Social Perception; D013240:Stereotyping; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013557:Switzerland / Q000208:ethnology