Which statement best describes a common psychological approach to reducing prejudice in multicultural societies?

• A. Increasing intergroup contact between groups
• B. Isolating groups to minimize interaction
• C. Reinforcing stereotypes to clarify differences
• D. Reducing exposure to diverse groups

Answer: (A)

Intergroup contact is the idea that positive, structured interactions between members of different groups can reduce prejudice in multicultural settings. The best demonstrations of this come from the idea that contact works best when people interact as equals, work toward shared goals, engage in cooperative activities, and feel supported by authorities or social norms. Under those conditions, individuals see outgroup members as individuals rather than as stereotypes, their anxiety around difference decreases, and they learn more accurate information about the other group.

Research across cultures shows that frequent, positive intergroup contact tends to lower prejudice, especially when the conditions above are met. It helps people realize that differences do not doom cooperation or friendship, which is particularly important in diverse societies with many cultures, languages, and backgrounds.

Choosing isolation or reducing exposure, or reinforcing stereotypes, tends to maintain or even deepen prejudice because opportunities to learn about others and to disconfirm biased beliefs are minimized or counterproductive. Increasing intergroup contact is the approach most consistently linked to reducing prejudice.