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First published online April 24, 2012

Intergroup bias toward “Group X”: Evidence of prejudice, dehumanization, avoidance, and discrimination against asexuals

Abstract

Although biases against homosexuals (and bisexuals) are well established, potential biases against a largely unrecognized sexual minority group, asexuals, has remained uninvestigated. In two studies (university student and community samples) we examined the extent to which those not desiring sexual activity are viewed negatively by heterosexuals. We provide the first empirical evidence of intergroup bias against asexuals (the so-called “Group X”), a social target evaluated more negatively, viewed as less human, and less valued as contact partners, relative to heterosexuals and other sexual minorities. Heterosexuals were also willing to discriminate against asexuals (matching discrimination against homosexuals). Potential confounds (e.g., bias against singles or unfamiliar groups) were ruled out as explanations. We suggest that the boundaries of theorizing about sexual minority prejudice be broadened to incorporate this new target group at this critical period, when interest in and recognition of asexuality is scientifically and culturally expanding.

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Published In

Article first published online: April 24, 2012
Issue published: November 2012

Keywords

  1. asexual
  2. sexual minority
  3. prejudice
  4. dehumanization
  5. discrimination

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Authors

Affiliations

Cara C. MacInnis
Brock University, Canada
Gordon Hodson
Brock University, Canada

Notes

Cara C. MacInnis, Department of Psychology, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, L2S 3A1 Email: [email protected]

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