Question

Which scenario best exemplifies the contact hypothesis, promoting positive intercultural interactions?

A) Alyssa's extensive study of China enables successful interaction with her Chinese friends.
B) John's global travels foster positive attitudes and relationships with people of diverse cultures.
C) Cameron's discussions with his friend Luc about France enhance his communication with various cultures.
D) Jill's open-mindedness facilitates successful communication with people in Venezuelan towns.

Answer 1

The best example of the contact hypothesis is John's global travels, which align with the theory's conditions for reducing prejudice and foster positive intercultural interactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The scenario that best exemplifies the contact hypothesis, promoting positive intercultural interactions, is B) John's global travels foster positive attitudes and relationships with people of diverse cultures. The contact hypothesis suggests that under certain conditions, intergroup contact can reduce prejudice and lead to positive social outcomes.

According to Pettigrew and Tropp's meta-analysis, contact between groups reduces prejudice, particularly when both groups have equal standing, common goals, and institutional support for the interaction. John's experiences while traveling enable him to engage with individuals from different cultures on an equal footing, work towards shared goals, such as problem-solving or leisure activities, and possibly do so with institutional support such as educational or professional exchange programs, thus aligning well with the principles of the contact hypothesis.