The aim of the current study was to test the effectiveness of imagined contact - a mental simulation of a social encounter with an outgroup member - in improving humanity perceptions of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID). A longitudinal study was conducted, examining non-disabled adults. Humanity perceptions were assessed by using uniquely human and non-uniquely human emotions. Results showed that a not fully human status was ascribed to people with intellectual disabilities. Imagined contact, however, reduced the humanity bias. Moreover, the positive influence of imagined contact was revealed also after one month, thus providing evidence of a long-term impact. Practical implications of results are discussed.
Imagined contact favors humanization of individuals with intellectual disabilities: A two-wave study
FALVO, ROSSELLA;CAPOZZA, DORA;
2014
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to test the effectiveness of imagined contact - a mental simulation of a social encounter with an outgroup member - in improving humanity perceptions of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID). A longitudinal study was conducted, examining non-disabled adults. Humanity perceptions were assessed by using uniquely human and non-uniquely human emotions. Results showed that a not fully human status was ascribed to people with intellectual disabilities. Imagined contact, however, reduced the humanity bias. Moreover, the positive influence of imagined contact was revealed also after one month, thus providing evidence of a long-term impact. Practical implications of results are discussed.
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