THE ROLE OF ADMIRATION IN OUTGROUP PERCEPTION

Abstract

How individuals perceive outgroups can have important implications for social behaviour. Across six studies (N = 1505), it was found that the positive emotion of admiration can affect how outgroups are perceived. Studies 1a to 1c demonstrated that admiration could predict outgroup perception. Study 2 extended on these results by demonstrating a causal relationship between admiration and outgroup perception. Study 3a replicated the results of Study 2 and additionally demonstrated that it is admiration, and not positive affect, that led to positive outgroup perception. In addition, although the results of Study 3b did not replicate, an internal meta-analysis suggested an overall significant effect of admiration on outgroup perception. However, both Studies 3a and 3b were unsuccessful in identifying a mediator for the relationship between admiration and outgroup perception. Overall, these results suggest that admiration can lead to positive outcomes for outgroup perception.