Methodological Challenges in Intergroup Threat Research: Guidelines for Future Studies

Abstract

The extensive research corpus on intergroup threat perception underscores its crucial role in intergroup dynamics. However, systematic investigation of threat perception as a primary cause of prejudice and adverse intergroup outcomes began only with the emergence of Intergroup Threat Theory, which integrates premises from earlier relevant theories. This paper has several objectives, the first being a critical review of the conceptualization of intergroup threat as defined by Intergroup Threat Theory. We address the issue of defining various threat types and the need for revising the original model, as well as the complexity introduced by reciprocity and the dynamic nature of the model’s constructs. The second objective is to address challenges in measuring intergroup threat, which we explore through a review of experimental and correlational research. To familiarize other researchers with different methodological approaches, we highlight their advantages and limitations, provide an overview of existing studies, and connect their scientific and practical contributions. The theory emphasizes the role of contextual specificities in assessing different threat types, which sometimes leads to inconsistencies in terminology. We also highlight how this can pose a methodological challenge. Finally, by addressing methodological challenges and unresolved questions in intergroup threat research, our third objective is to offer potential solutions and provide guidelines for future research.