Abstract
Extending Spencer-Rodgers and McGovern’s (2002) intergroup threat research, this study investigated the role of intercultural communication emotions (ICE) - negative affect associated with perceived linguistic and cultural barriers, in conjunction with contact dimensions, in understanding domestic students’ attitude towards international students. Participants included 327 Australian undergraduate university students (63% female and 37% male; ranging from 17 to 58 years of age) who anonymously self-reported their social interactions with and perceptions of international students. Multiple hierarchical regression results indicated that intercultural communication emotions were moderately and uniquely related to unfavourable attitudes towards international students. The quantity and quality of social contact exhibited small positive effects on intergroup evaluations and this relationship was partially mediated by ICE. Theoretical implications are discussed and integrated in reference to strategies for creating intercultural programs on campuses. The important role of negative factors in instigating and ameliorating intergroup attitudes is highlighted.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Psychology Leading Change: Proceedings of the 43rd APS Annual Conference |
| Editors | N Voudouris, V Mrowinski |
| Place of Publication | Melbourne, VIC |
| Publisher | The Australian Psychological Society |
| Pages | 21-25 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780909881368 |
| Publication status | Published - 2008 |
| Event | 43rd Annual APS Conference - Hobart, Australia Duration: 23 Sept 2008 → 27 Sept 2008 |
Conference
| Conference | 43rd Annual APS Conference |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | Australia |
| City | Hobart |
| Period | 23/09/08 → 27/09/08 |