Psychological Distance and Likeablity of in- Or Out-Group Targets Who Hold Different Opinions

Abstract

This study investigated whether the extension of psychological distance from in-or out-group targets that hold different opinions covaried with increased negative impressions about such targets. A between-participants 2 (matching opinion vs. non-matching opinion presentations) × 2 (Japanese in-group presenter vs. American out-group presenter) factorial design was used. The results indicated the following: (1) in the matching opinion condition, participants reduced the psychological distance from out-group targets and increased their likeability: whereas (2) in the nonmatching opinion condition, participants maintained the psychological distance from in-group targets and disliked them. These results indicate that the difference between actual and expected opinions that people have about targets affected the increase, or decrease of psychological distance and the likability of targets.