Answer to Question 1
Symbolic interactionists examine how microlevel contacts between
people may produce either greater racial tolerance or increased levels of
hostility. In the contact hypothesis, symbolic interactionists point out that
contact between people from divergent groups should lead to favorable
attitudes and behavior when certain factors are present. Members of
each group must (1) have equal status, (2) pursue the same goals, (3)
cooperate with one another to achieve their goals, and (4) receive
positive feedback when they interact with one another in positive,
nondiscriminatory ways. When individuals meet someone who does not
conform to their existing stereotype, they frequently ignore anything that
contradicts the stereotype, or they interpret the situation to support their
prejudices. Symbolic interactionist perspective make us aware of the
importance of intergroup contact and the fact that it may either intensify or
reduce racial and ethnic stereotyping and prejudice.
Answer to Question 2
d
Symbolic language may have helped reinforce exclusive sexual relationships within social groups in l
Four Possible Ethnic Identity Statuses
Projections of the Racial-Ethnic Makeup of the U.S. Population
Dresden’s Symbolic Landscape
Ethnic and Religious Diversity
A toddler demonstrates symbolic play