How does intergroup contact reduce prejudice? Meta-analytic tests of three mediators

Recent years have witnessed a renewal of interest in intergroup contact theory. A met-analysis of more than 500 studies established the theory's basic contention that intergroup contact typically reduces prejudices of many types. This paper addresses the issue of process: just how does contact diminish prejudice? We test meta-analytically the three most studies mediators: contact reduces prejudice by (1) enhancing knowledge about the outgroup (2) reducing anxiety about intergroup contact, and (3) increasing empathy and perspective taking. Our tests reveal mediational effects for all three of these mediators. However, the mediational value of increased knowledge appears less strong than anxiety reduction and empathy. Limitations of the study and implications of the results are discussed. Copyright (C) John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.