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Watching the mimickers: Mimicry and identity in observed interactions
Christian Bretter1, Kerrie L Unsworth1, Mark A Robinson1
1Department of Organizational Behavior, Leeds University Business School, University of Leeds.
Journal of Experimental Psychology. Applied
|December 15, 2022
Summary
Mimicry observed between strangers can reduce negative out-group bias, even when the mimicker is from an out-group. This behavior-based effect influences observer judgments and intergroup prejudice.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Intergroup Relations
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Mimicry typically improves self-directed judgments.
- Observer judgments are influenced by social identities and group membership.
- The impact of observed mimicry on intergroup bias is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if observed mimicry affects observers' evaluations of a mimicker.
- To determine if mimicry reduces negative out-group bias.
- To explore the influence of social identity on these effects.
Main Methods:
- Two video experiments (N=377; N=670) were conducted.
- Participants observed interactions with mimicry versus neutral conditions.
- Participants were primed to view individuals as in-group or out-group members.
Main Results:
- A negative out-group bias was observed in neutral interactions, specifically for competence.
- This bias was significantly diminished in the mimicry condition.
- Observed mimicry altered attitudes related to social identity.
Conclusions:
- Mimicry, even when passively observed, can reduce negative out-group bias.
- Behavior-based mimicry demonstrates malleability in intergroup prejudice.
- Findings contribute to strategies for reducing prejudice.
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