Stathi, Sofia ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1218-5239, Pavetich, Melissa and Borinca, Islam (2026) Meta-humanization and intergroup contact. In: Travaglino, Giovanni, Moon, Chanki and Stathi, Sofia, (eds.) Handbook of Power, Conflict, and Social Identity. De Gruyter, Berlin; Boston. (Submitted)

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Abstract

This chapter examines meta-humanization -the belief that one’s ingroup is viewed as fully human by an outgroup- as a key psychological antecedent of intergroup contact. Building on extensive evidence that contact reduces prejudice and fosters social cohesion, the chapter highlights how inaccurate and pessimistic meta‑perceptions often inhibit people from engaging in intergroup interactions, even when opportunities exist. Synthesizing findings across religious, political, and post-conflict contexts, the chapter shows that experimentally induced meta-humanization increases willingness for intergroup contact, independent of prior contact. These effects operate through reductions in blatant dehumanization, increases in outgroup humanization, and shifts in moral emotions (such as disgust and empathy). Moderators -including perceived threat, identity centrality, and war-related traumatic memories- shape the strength of these pathways, underscoring the contextual sensitivity of meta-humanization processes. The chapter concludes by outlining future research directions, emphasizing the need for longitudinal designs, attention to power asymmetries, and examination of meta-humanization across multiple groups and forms of conflict. Together, we argue that the evidence positions meta-humanization as a promising mechanism for designing interventions that promote sustainable and meaningful intergroup engagement.

Item Type:	Book Section
Uncontrolled Keywords:	intergroup contact, meta-humanization, meta-perceptions, dehumanization, conflict
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development > Centre for Inequalities Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > School of Human Sciences (HUM)
Last Modified:	20 Apr 2026 13:48
URI:	https://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/52858

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