Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Mass communication

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

Although a considerable number of scholars agree that an intergroup coalition among minorities will be more powerful in changing biased perceptions, regulations, and policies (e.g., Burson & Godfrey, 2020; Lane et al., 2019), cross-minority solidarity is challenging due to the inherent difficulties in establishing a shared goal and reaching a consensus on methods and tactics (Gawerc, 2021; Rogers, 2004) and competing policy stances and stereotypes (Hope, 2019; Nopper, 2006). Numerous instances of social movements that failed due to the failure of coalitions to form have been documented in the literature (e.g., Almeida, 2010; Ferree & Roth, 1998; Gelb & Shogan, 2005). Therefore, knowing what helps and what hinders minority groups from coming together in a united front is crucial.

This study expected that solidarity cues and counter-stereotype messaging are promising types of strategic communication to build and strengthen solidarity between minority groups based on solidarity literature. Based on the common ingroup identity model, and situational theory of problem solving theory, this dissertation proposes the theoretical model to explain the psychological mechanism of the effects of solidarity cues and counter-stereotype messaging on activism for the helping race.

The two experiments were conducted to investigate the suggested model with single-level and multi-level SEM modeling. The results provide empirical evidence from solidarity cues and counter-stereotype messaging to activism for the helping race through perceived commonality, situational variables, and the direct effects of solidarity cues on solidarity-based activism. In addition, counter-stereotype messaging increases perceived commonality, affecting the helping intention.

The findings in this study are particularly compelling given that existing intergroup solidarity literature primarily identifies solidarity as an outcome, neglecting the possibility of solidarity as a powerful factor in generating solidarity with other minority groups, as suggested by Gaertner et al. (2000). Practically, the results also imply that even a few people's participation in other minority groups' movements can benefit in building solidarity with the minority groups when the solidarity behaviors are delivered to other members of the recipient minority groups through mass media or social media. In this dissertation, I discuss the theoretical and practical implications.

Date

10-19-2023

Committee Chair

Pingree, Raymond J.

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