Seminars & Events
APL (Ajiken Power Lunch)
Professor Yuki Higuchi (Sophia University): Gaming for Cohesion: A Study on Integrating Refugees Through Virtual Intergroup Contact
Date&time:
Thursday, 4th of September, 12:00 to 1:15 p.m.
Venue:
Abstract:
This paper investigates the effects of intergroup contact in a virtual environment on social cohesion between ingroups and outgroups. By leveraging a virtual setting and using computer bots, we provide causal evidence on the heterogeneous effects of intergroup contact based on perceived outgroup performance levels. Developing an original gaming application, we conducted a nationwide pre-registered randomized controlled trial in Bangladesh, where Bangladeshi participants interacted virtually with Rohingya. We found that virtual interactions with Rohingya of similar or lower performance fostered cohesion by reducing hostility, improving attitudes, and motivating in-person interaction. However, interactions with higher-performing Rohingya enhanced beliefs about their abilities but did not lead to social cohesion.
Speaker:
Professor Yuki Higuchi (Sophia University)
Moderator:
Contact:
Institute of Developing Economies, APL Organizers
E-mail: APL