Intersectionality and relations between oppressed groups: Intergroup implications of beliefs about intersectional differences and commonalities

Abstract

Abstract Social psychological research on relations between oppressed groups has highlighted the role of how people compare their own and other groups’ oppression—that is, comparative victim beliefs. However, this research has examined comparative victim beliefs concerning single‐identity groups such as ethnicity or religion. Consequently, beliefs regarding experiences of oppression based on multiple intersecting identities (e.g., race, class, and gender)—that is, intersectional consciousness—have been overlooked. Integrating research on comparative victim beliefs and intersectional consciousness, we investigated perceived privilege and oppression linked with peoples’ intersecting identities that can inform relations between oppressed communities—specifically, between Dalits (lower castes) and Muslims in the understudied context of India. Thematic analysis of individual interviews ( N = 33) and focus groups ( K = 12; N = 66) revealed distinct beliefs of differences and commonalities linked with intersectional experiences that can be sources of solidarity or tensions between oppressed groups. Along with making significant theoretical contributions, this research holds important implications for policymakers and activists who aim to forge coalitions between oppressed groups.