Attitudes towards Polish immigrants to the Republic of Ireland: an integrated threat analysis

Abstract

Research has shown that the experience of threat plays a role in attitudes towards immigrants. Using the integrated threat theory of prejudice, the present study investigated the putative association between three threat variables (realistic threat, symbolic threat and intergroup anxiety) and prejudice and discrimination. Findings from two studies using community and university samples (N = 112 and 83, respectively) revealed limited support for integrated threat when applied to assessments of Polish versus Irish job applicants. Limitations and suggestions for further research are outlined.