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A Fly-on-the-Wall Study: Measuring Behavior in Social Landscapes

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  • Corona, Joshua

Abstract

Understanding the dynamics of intergroup contact and avoidance is crucial for addressing social discord and fostering positive interactions between distinct social groups. This article introduces the Fly-on-the-Wall Study, employed to measure intergroup social avoidance on "Link Light Rail" train platforms in Seattle, Washington. The study unobtrusively observes and codes public encounters between the first two arrivers on the platform to investigate the extent and conditions under which racial and social avoidance occur. The analysis relates levels of avoidance to individual and contextual factors including sex, age, perceived ethnicity, and objectively coded skin color. Subtle forms of discrimination, manifested as social avoidance, can exacerbate feelings of antagonism among already disenfranchised groups, leading to significant social and political consequences. The findings provide insights into the modifiers of intergroup avoidance and offer valuable implications for developing targeted interventions to promote positive intergroup contact, reduce discrimination, and inform public policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Corona, Joshua, 2024. "A Fly-on-the-Wall Study: Measuring Behavior in Social Landscapes," OSF Preprints 4jb2p, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:osfxxx:4jb2p
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/4jb2p
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