Secure attachment priming and outgroup humanization

In two studies, we tested the hypothesis that priming secure attachment increases outgroup humanization. In Study 1, security was primed showing pictures suggesting attachment-figures availability. In control conditions, single individuals or landscapes were shown. Participants were n=25 in each condition. After stimuli presentation, participants ascribed uniquely human and non-uniquely human emotions to the outgroup (the homeless). Findings supported our hypothesis. While in the control conditions an equal member of primary and secondary emotions was assigned to the outgroup, in the security condition, the outgroup was perceived more in terms of uniquely human emotions. In Study 2, in the security condition, participants were asked to recall an interaction that left them with feelings of security. In the control condition, they recalled an ordinary interaction. Participants were 121 in each condition. After manipulation, they expressed their emotions, and evaluated the outgroup (the Roma) on uniquely human and non-uniquely human traits. Priming security increased humanization via the mediation of empathy and trust. The beneficial effects of enhancing security are discussed.