The physical congregation of people according to the dimensions of the Stereotype Content Model and the BIAS Map

Abstract

With the use of community samples, we explored the application of the dimensions of the stereotype content model (SCM) and the related behavior from intergroup affect and stereotypes (BIAS) map from social perception to the actual physical congregation of people in social groups. Across two studies, our findings indicate that people congregate in social groups in accordance with the dimensions of the SCM. In turn, the findings also show behavioral intentions toward outgroups in actual social interactions that have been hypothesized in the BIAS model. We discuss the implications of the findings and offer recommendations on how to deal with conflicts that may arise as a result of interactions that are incongruent due to the warmth and competence differences.