Intergroup Contact: Empirical findings with preschool children

According to literature, since preschool age children are able to categorize self and others (Tajfel, 1982;) using above all gender (LaFreniere, Strayer, & Gauthier, 1984; Bennet & Sani, 2003) and ethnic category (Clark & Clark, 1947; Prohansky, 1966) and expressing preferences characterized by ingroup biases and prejudices (Asher & Allen, 1969; Aboud, 1988, 1996, 2003; Kelly et al. 2005, 2007; Brown, 2010). In relation to these dynamics, the amount and the quality of contact could be relevant in order to improve intergroup relationships (Allport, 1954). This study repeated the methodology of a research carried out by Castelli, De Amicis, Carnaghi & Arcuri (2007) with the aim to explore the perception and evaluation that a group of 120 preschool children had on an ingroup member who played with an outgroup member. The hypothesis is that this perception could be positively affected by kindergarten contact with a black child. Participants were interviewed individually by researcher in a face to face setting. Results seem to delineate a framework substantially positive albeit not without complexity. Indeed, participants didn't express discrimination towards white child who played with a black child but some of them revealed a moderate ingroup favouritism to the detriment of black. These results revealed the need to promote educational projects inspired to positive intergroup contact (Allport, 1954; Amir, 1969; Pettigrew, 1998) in order to promote, in age of development, attitudes and perceptions in favour of diversity and of integration.