Power, negotiations, and the anticipation of intergroup encounters

Abstract

This review places intergroup encounters in a broad framework which considers the context in which such encounters take place, and in particular, the power dynamics at play. We address different forms of encounters, spanning from interpersonal interactions (not focused on intergroup aspects) to political negotiations between the groups’ representatives, and argue for a deeper consideration of power asymmetries in examining such encounters. We argue that because high- and low-power group members have different motivations for change in the status quo, they differ in their expectations from intergroup encounters and in the types of encounters they prefer. We describe relevant research while considering moderating factors such as the legitimacy and stability of the power dynamics. We also identify remaining gaps and topics requiring further research. This work has both conceptual and practical implications for the prospects of promoting both positive attitudinal change as well as changes to the hierarchical status quo.

Keywords:

• Power
• Intergroup encounters
• Negotiations
• Stability
• Legitimacy

This work was supported by Marie Curie FP7 Reintegration Grant awarded by the European Union to the first author [grant number 268463].

Notes

¹ We note that analysing the ways in which contact might have differential effects for high- and low-power groups is not to dismiss the potential for contact (or other forms of intergroup encounters) to create progress towards equality. Rather, an analysis of the power dynamics affecting intergroup encounters may generate theoretical insights that can be applied to encounters that help facilitate high-power group acceptance of policies promoting social change without simultaneously undercutting the desire of low-power group members to push for such change. We argue that only by carefully analysing the effects of power dynamics between groups can we help to uncover the mechanisms such interventions would need to target.