Paths to Prejudice Reduction Utilizing Virtual Avatars and Agents
Open Access
Author:
Aviles, Jose Alejandro
Graduate Program:
Mass Communications
Degree:
Doctor of Philosophy
Document Type:
Dissertation
Date of Defense:
July 10, 2017
Committee Members:
Michael Schmierbach, Dissertation Advisor/Co-Advisor Michael Grant Schmierbach, Committee Chair/Co-Chair Mary Beth Oliver, Committee Member George Anghelcev, Committee Member Duane Francis Alwin, Outside Member
Keywords:
Avatars Agents Proteus Racism Prejudice Contact Theory
Abstract:
This study examines two possible theoretical tools to the reduction of prejudice through the utilization of avatars. First, the Proteus effect and the potential mechanisms to its success are assessed. Two competing models of the Proteus effect are tested, the self-perception route and the priming route. In addition, a virtual intergroup contact theory model of prejudice reduction is tested utilizing the tenants of intergroup contact theory. The study indicates no support for the Proteus effect in the conditions that it was tested. In addition, no support is offered the virtual intergroup contact theory. Implications and future directions are discussed.
