Harris & Fiske (2006)
Sample
22 University undergraduates
Sample
14 caucasion American participants
Evolution
*Evolution- adapted to living in groups
Aim
Aim:To observe the role of the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala in reacting to "extreme out-groups" - biological correlations to contemptuous stereotypes
Aim
To determine wheter activity in the brain regions correlates with implicit measures of racial bias.
Hormones
*Hormones- Oxytocin
Procedure
22 University undergraduates were separated into two groups. 10 students observed images of people and 12 observed images of objects. Participants rated the neutral images as four emotions: pride, envy, pity, and disgust.
Procedure
Procedure:Had MRI scanning while they saw pictures of unfamiliar white and black faces
Group dynamics
studies the interactions, processes, and behaviors that occur within and between social groups, influencing how individuals interact, communicate, and work together, impacting group performance and cohesion.
Findings
Participants in the “object group” did not show any activity in the “
mPFC People group” active engagement of the mPFC.
Amygdala was active - responsible for disgust
Insula was active in the “people group” not the mPFC
Findings
Viewing Black faces enhanced amygdala activity, a brain region associated with emotional processing, such as fear and threat responses.
In general, it is important to note that the amygdala response did not follow a uniform pattern.
Brain Structures
*Brain Structures- Amygdala, Prefrontal cortex
Strength and Limitations
Strength- fMRI prohibits confounding variables Or Supports SIT and stereotyping
Limitation- Bias within the sample(Only American)
Generalizability Issues
Correlational Study
Strength and Limitations
Strength- High internal validity
Limitation- Small sample size: 14 participants limits generalizability.(White American)
Genetic Makeup
*Genetic Makeup- Genes that influence oxytocin levels, aggression, etc