The Role of Cultural Communication: Stereotype and Prejudice in the Amhara & Afar Ethnic Groups

Abstract

AbstractThis study examines the role of intercultural communication barriers of stereotypes and prejudices that can escalate, prevent, and manage violent inter‐ethnic conflicts between Amhara and Afar ethnic groups. The study used an explanatory design. Data were mainly collected through Focus Group Discussions and In‐depth Interviews. Participants of FGD and respondents of the in‐depth interviews were selected using purposive and snowball sampling. As per the findings, several types of ethnic‐based negative stereotypical perceptions were manifested by both Amhara and Afar ethnic groups. Hostile prejudicial feelings are developed based on the stereotyped perceptions of both ethnic groups. As per the findings, this stereotype‐based hate and hostile prejudicial feelings affect the inter‐ethnic communication of the two ethnic groups and contribute to the escalation of violent conflicts.