Final answer:
The concept of the contact hypothesis aligns with the functionalist perspective, which looks at how interracial interactions can positively contribute to societal harmony and reduce prejudice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The contact hypothesis states that interracial contact between people of equal status who are engaged in a cooperative task will cause them to become less prejudiced and to abandon previous stereotypes. This concept reflects a functionalist perspective. Functionalism suggests that various parts of society work together to maintain stability, and in the case of race relations, it emphasizes the beneficial effects of positive interracial interactions in reducing societal tensions and prejudices. Such interactions are viewed as contributing to the overall harmony and function of society.