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A dual group processes model of individual differences in prejudice
1Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford. adisara@shaw.ca
Summary
Individual tendencies predicting prejudice, such as right-wing authoritarianism (RWA) and Social Dominance Orientation (SDO), arise from group dynamics, not just personality traits. This challenges trait-based views by proposing a Dual Group Processes model.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Group Dynamics
- Prejudice Research
Background:
- Traditional research views right-wing authoritarianism (RWA) and Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) as individual traits predicting prejudice.
- This perspective overlooks the role of group dynamics in shaping these tendencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critique personality-based explanations of prejudice.
- To propose and defend the Dual Group Processes model, explaining RWA and SDO through group dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Critique of personality approaches to authoritarianism and social dominance.
- Development of the Dual Group Processes model.
Main Results:
- Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) is explained by category differentiation (evaluating individuals by group membership).
- Right-wing authoritarianism (RWA) is explained by normative differentiation (evaluating ingroup members by prototypicality).
- Authoritarian aggression is reconceptualized as an intragroup process against perceived norm deviants.
Conclusions:
- Individual tendencies like RWA and SDO are products of group processes, not solely individual traits.
- The Dual Group Processes model offers an alternative framework for understanding prejudice and intergroup relations.
- Understanding group dynamics is crucial for explaining prejudice and intergroup conflict.