Article 2f: Living Under Threat: Mutual Threat perception drives anti-Muslim and anti- Western hostility in the age of terrorism (Obaidi et al., 2018)

Question 1

Cycle of hostility

Answer 1

Mutual threat perception can create a self-perpetuating cycle of hostility, which reinforces the other group’s perception of threat and hostility, creating a vicious cycle of hostility.

Question 2

Group identification

Answer 2

Plays a mediating role in the relationship between perceived threats and hostility. People with a strong group identification are more likely to perceive threats and respond with hostility.

Question 3

Different types of threats as predictors for hostility (towards Muslims)

Answer 3

• Symbolic threat: threat to beliefs and values of the group. This is the strongest predictor of intergroup hostility.
• Realistic threat: also predicted hostility, but to lesser extend that symbolic threats.
• Terroristic threat: did NOT predict hostility.

Question 4

How to minimise hostility between groups

Answer 4

Interventions should be aimed at reducing the perceived threats, by promoting intergroup understanding, challenging negative stereotypes, fostering an inclusive environment and intercultural dialogue.