Work

Does intergroup contact increase children’s desire to play with diverse peers and reduce experiences of social exclusion?

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: = 9.64 years) and 48 teachers in 48 third, fourth, and fifth grade classrooms across six schools. Overall, students in the program displayed more positive expectations about play with diverse peers and fewer experiences with social exclusion. Classroom discussions involved challenging group norms that perpetuate same-group preferences. Children's grade moderated their desire for contact with peers from some but not all social groups. This type of program may be an effective means for increasing positive, inclusive group norms in childhood, as this is a time in development when attitudes and preferences for peer friendships are forming. Increasing positive intergroup norms in the classroom creates academic learning environments that promote healthy child development.

Source: Peace and Conflict Journal of Peace Psychology

DOI: 10.1037/pac0000713