The Role of Discrepancy-Associated Affect in Prejudice Reduction

Abstract

This chapter presents evidence to support the argument that the self-generated affect that follows from violations of nonprejudiced values plays an important role in the future control and regulation of stereotype-based responses The first step in the prejudice reduction process involves establishing and internalizing nonprejudiced standards and values. However, adopting nonprejudiced standards is not equivalent to overcoming prejudice. Despite the fact that stereotype-based responses are viewed as inappropriate once nonprejudiced values are established, such responses are extremely difficult to avoid. The chapter reviews research relevant to people's experienced difficulties in trying to avoid stereotypical responses and their affective reactions to their failures to avoid such responses. It presents the theoretical rationale for understanding why and how affect plays a role in the prejudice reduction process.