In someone else’s shoes: Reducing prejudice through perspective taking

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of online, low-cost, scalable interventions aimed at reducing prejudice against an out-group through the use of perspective taking. We conducted an online experiment in which Colombian natives were randomly assigned to either watch a video documentary about Venezuelan forced migrants crossing the Colombian border on foot or to play an online game that immersed them in the life of a Venezuelan forced migrant. Compared to a control group, both treatments led to increased altruism toward Venezuelans and improved attitudes toward forced migrants. However, only the game significantly boosted self-reported trust. In terms of effectiveness per minute of treatment, the video was at least four times more efficient than the game in enhancing prosociality. Given the video’s comparably shorter duration, greater ease of dissemination, and lower demand for active involvement, it appears a superior option to enhance prosocial behaviors in the short term.