THE FACTORS OF INFRAHUMANIZATION OF RUSSIANS AND BELARUSIANS IN UKRAINIANS' PERCEPTION

Abstract

This paper delves into the complexities of intergroup dynamics, specifically focusing on how Ukrainians perceive citizens of countries implicated in largescale invasion, namely Russia and Belarus. The research seeks to illuminate the subjective experiences of Ukrainians in terms of primary and secondary emotions, and further quantifies the extent of infrahumanization--a subtler form of dehumanization--towards these out-groups. The theoretical section of the study elaborates on the concept of infrahumanization and its significance in the context of group identification, differential group status, and the legitimacy and stability of these factors. It provides an insightful understanding of how group identities are formed, the importance of status differentials between groups, and the measures of their perceived legitimacy and stability. The empirical investigation estimates the infrahumanization levels towards Russians and Belarusians, examines the perceived legitimacy and stability of status differences between Ukrainians and these out-groups, and assesses the strength of Ukrainian group identification. The results reveal a marked degree of infrahumanization towards Russians and Belarusians. Infrahumanization of Russians correlates predictably with Ukrainian identity, perceptions of Russians' antagonistic attitudes (legitimacy) towards Ukrainians, stability of status, and personal experiences of positive communications with Russians. In contrast, the study found no significant correlations when examining infrahumanization of Belarusians.