intergruppekontakt

Intergruppekontakt (intergroup contact) refers to interactions between members of different social groups with the aim of reducing prejudice and improving intergroup relations. The concept is central in social psychology and broader fields such as sociology and peace studies. It builds on the intergroup contact hypothesis, formulated by Gordon W. Allport in 1954, which argues that under certain conditions direct contact between groups can decrease stereotypes, prejudice, and anxiety about out-groups.

The four core conditions commonly cited are: equal status of the groups within the contact situation, shared goals that require cooperation, intergroup collaboration rather than competitive interaction, and institutional or normative support from authorities or social norms. Over time researchers have refined the theory to include additional factors such as extended contact (knowing that members of one’s own group have friends in the other group), potential for friendship, perspective-taking, and exposure to positive intergroup exemplars. Various forms of contact exist: direct face-to-face interaction, extended contact through acquaintances, vicarious contact by observing intergroup interactions, and imagined contact.

Empirical research generally finds that intergruppekontakt can reduce prejudice and improve attitudes, particularly when the conditions are met and the encounter is positive. It is applied in educational settings, workplaces, communities, and policy initiatives aimed at social integration. Limitations include the dependence on context, power dynamics, and preexisting conflict; if the conditions are not met, contact can backfire or have limited effects. Ongoing research continues to explore mechanisms, measurement, and long-term outcomes across cultures.