Social psychology made intergroup contact a subject of empirical study.

Evidence

Emphasizing categorization during contact, however, is not without its own dangers. Making categories salient risks exacerbating and reinforcing perceptions of group differences, which may result in anxiety, discomfort, and fear (Hewstone & Brown, 1986). — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1811 (#complicates, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Intergroup attitude structures vary with the relationship’s contact patterns — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 662; Affect caused by an intergroup encounter may operate differently than incidental affect — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 2257; Perceived stratification pushes social behavior from interpersonal toward intergroup patterns — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 2684 (+14 more)

Broader Connections

• Salient categorization during intergroup contact can breed anxiety rather than reduce prejudice. #complicates (0.80) — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1811
• Superficial intergroup contact reinforces rather than reduces stereotypes #complicates (0.78)