Dealing with cultural diversity: An empirical test of a causal model of intergroup relations

Issues of intergroup relations were addressed through an empirical integration of some variables related to the contact hypothesis (Amir, 1969; Miller & Brewer, 1984). A subset of the variables and their inter-relations described by Triandis (1992) was tested using a structural equation modelling approach. Specifically, the study looked at perceived cultural level variables (e.g., history of conflict, cultural distance, knowledge of culture) and interpersonal variables (e.g., perceived similarity, opportunity to interact) to predict (dis)satisfying intercultural contact, intergroup attitude, and intention for future interaction. The model was tested from two perspectives (European-American and African-American) differing in majority and minority status. Results support the basic premises of the hypothesized model in both groups. However, several interesting differences were revealed with respect to the meaning of the constructs across groups, and the necessary addition of paths needed to improve the model's fit. Several alternative models were also tested that looked at the effects of social distance of the target person, and alternative order effects of affect, behavior and cognition. The results were discussed in terms of differences in culture and power, and implications for future research and application were drawn.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Psychology

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2011

Author dc:creator

• Goto, Sharon Grace

Contributors dc:contributor

• Triandis, Harry C.

• Psychology, Social
• Sociology, Ethnic and Racial Studies

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1996 Goto, Sharon Grace

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

9780591086911
AAI9702525
(UMI)AAI9702525

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/21454