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In three studies, we examined the impact of multiple categorization on intergroup dehumanization. Study 1 showed that perceiving members of a rival university along multiple versus simple categorical dimensions enhanced the tendency to attribute human traits to this group. Study 2 showed that multiple versus simple categorization of immigrants increased the attribution of uniquely human emotions to them. This effect was explained by the sequential mediation of increased individuation of the outgroup and reduced outgroup threat. Study 3 replicated this sequential mediation model and introduced a novel way of measuring humanization in which participants generated attributes corresponding to the outgroup in a free response format. Participants generated more uniquely human traits in the multiple versus simple categorization conditions. We discuss the theoretical implications of these findings and consider their role in informing and improving efforts to ameliorate contemporary forms of intergroup discrimination.

Original publication

DOI

10.1177/0146167216636624

Type

Journal article

Journal

Pers Soc Psychol Bull

Publication Date

04/2016

Volume

42

Pages

526 - 539

Keywords

dehumanization, individuation, multiple categorization, perceived threat, Adult, Dehumanization, Female, Group Processes, Humans, Individuation, Interpersonal Relations, Male, Social Identification, Social Perception, Young Adult