Cognition, Affect, and Behavior in the Prediction of Group Attitudes

Abstract

Based on a tripartite perspective on attitudes, research was designed to identify the cognitions (stereotypes and values), affects, and behavior associated with three target groups (Afirican Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans) and to examine the contribution of each to the prediction of group attitudes. Cognitions associated with the target groups extended previous findings and indicated that current perceptions focus more on the group's relationship to the rest of society than on characteristics of group members. Less positive affect was associated with all three target groups, especially with Afiican Americans, with whom fear was also associated. Affect and behavior were the strongest predictors of group attitudes; cognition made a minor contribution for each group. Implications for conceptualization and change in group attitudes (i.e., reducing prejudice) are discussed.