Abstract
ABSTRACTOne correlational study examined whether virtual contact via Facebook is positively related to intergroup relations. The followers of two online campaigns from Iran and Israel—whose countries have been in a politically hostile relationship since the 1980s—indicated the amount of direct and indirect virtual (Facebook) and real-life outgroup contact they have had, a number of quality and affective judgments about that contact, and completed an affective prejudice measure about the respective outgroup. Overall, contact was negatively associated with affective prejudice, providing support for the contact hypothesis in a specific and exclusively virtual setting with citizens of hostile nations. Previously experienced real-life contact did not moderate the results, suggesting that virtual contact has an independent link to positive outgroup attitudes.
Highlights
One correlational study examined whether virtual contact via Facebook is positively related to intergroup relations
After answering some filler items, they were asked about their virtual contact experiences: “Have you ever participated in discussions on one of the two I-L-I Facebook pages?“ (M = 2.11, SD = 1.20) and “Did you ever get into direct contact with an Iranian/Israeli through one of the I-L-I Facebook pages?” (M = 1.62, SD = 1.12)
We examined whether the effect of virtual contact on outgroup attitude remained significant when controlling for real-life contact
Summary
One correlational study examined whether virtual contact via Facebook is positively related to intergroup relations. KEYWORDS Facebook; intergroup contact; online social networks; prejudice; virtual contact We extend previous research by examining whether the relationship between virtual contact and outgroup attitudes holds when controlling for the impact of real-life contact (Christ et al, 2010).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
