Turning the Tables: Cross-Group Prosocial Behavior as a Predictor of (Re)humanization.

This project proposes an innovative approach to comprehend group-based dehumanization, suggesting that cross-group prosocial behavior (PB) can reduce inter- and ingroup dehumanization based on class, ethnicity and their intersection (i.e., can have a (re)humanization effect). We extend the literature a) meta-analytically b) cross-sectionally and c) experimentally, testing the impact of provided and received cross-group PB on class- and ethnicity-based inter- and ingroup dehumanization, via psychological empowerment (PE), examining the moderator role of ethnic and class identities. First, we conduct a meta- analysis on PB, psychological empowerment, and class- and ethnically-based inter- and ingroup dehumanization. Second, we test cross-sectionally the proposed conceptual model. Third, we conduct experiments testing the predictor role of both providing and receiving cross-group PB on inter- and ingroup dehumanization, allowing for causal inferences. Looking beyond intergroup dehumanization, these studies will articulate the (re)humanization potential of cross-group PB as applied to power and competence dimensions of mechanistic and animalistic dehumanization, and including ingroup as well as intergroup (de/re)humanization as outcomes.