EXPERIMENTAL APPLICATION OF BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION STRATEGEMS TOWARD CHANGING ETHNOCENTRIC ATTITUDE

Abstract

This study attempted to show that a change in ethnocentrism could be accomplished through the use of behavior modification techniques. A total of 18 Caucasian subjects were divided into six groups: three control groups and three experimental groups. In one control and one experimental condition, Ss read statements printed on index cards. Experimental group Ss were reinforced for reading certain anti-ethnocentric statements. Control group Ss received no reinforcement no matter what statements they made. In a second condition, Ss underwent a structured interview with experimental Ss being reinforced for anti-ethnocentric statements. Attitude change was determined by subtracting the pretest from the post-test scores on the Ethnocentrism Scale which was administered to all subjects. Results showed that reinforcement was effective in producing attitude change.