Outgroup threat and opportunity to derogate: A social neuroscience approach

Intergroup communication is at the core of intergroup relations. Studies demonstrate that threat and having an opportunity to derogate outgroup result in heightened cortisol levels. However, biomarkers associated with different stress systems may show distinct patterns under same conditions. We investigated whether perceptions would increase alpha-amylase White Canadian university students (N = 77) read discriminatory or favorable comments Chinese individuals made towards Canadians. Subsequently, they were given outgroup. Salivary was collected baseline, following threat, after derogate. Participants showed response albeit delayed, but no further concentration values due derogation. The findings illustrate impact on physiological as well importance using multiple elucidate relationship.