The cortisol response to anticipated intergroup interactions predicts self-reported prejudice.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

While prejudice has often been shown to be rooted in experiences of threat, the biological underpinnings of this threat-prejudice association have received less research attention. The present experiment aims to test whether activations of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, due to anticipated interactions with out-group members, predict self-reported prejudice. Moreover, we explore potential moderators of this relationship (i.e., interpersonal similarity; subtle vs. blatant prejudice).

Methodology/principal findings

Participants anticipated an interaction with an out-group member who was similar or dissimilar to the self. To index HPA activation, cortisol responses to this event were measured. Then, subtle and blatant prejudices were measured via quest

SUBMITTER: Bijleveld E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3307755 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature