Doctoral Defense: "An analysis of the Efficacy of Positive Intergroup Contact Among the Sri Lankan Diaspora," Maneesha Sampath Wanasinghe-Pasqual

Join the ICAR community and doctoral student Maneesha Sampath Wanasinghe-Pasqual as she defends her dissertation, entitled:

"An Analysis of the Efficacy of Positive Intergroup Contact Among the Sri Lankan Diaspora."

Questions and Discussion welcomed
Full abstract below

Abstract:

This research questioned the assumption that intergroup interaction does not exist among Sri Lankan diaspora, who are often presented as archetypes of conflict-driven divided diaspora. In the process, it questioned the effectiveness of such positive contact in creating catalysts for peace. The research utilized the snowball sampling technique to uncover Sri Lankan diaspora participants residing in the United Kingdom who interacted with members of the ‘enemy’ (out-)group. The research used Network analysis to gain insights into whether these diaspora interact informally with diaspora who held similar and/or different ideas. Narrative analysis and Positioning theory assisted in understanding whether these diaspora interactions remained positive, in the hope that it might subsequently result in a reduction in prejudice and a questioning of the enemy image. The concept of ‘Turning Points’ also aided in this endeavor. The research illuminated the fact that diaspora from divided groups perceived only those close acquaintances from the out-group as friends. Despite the tenants of Contact Hypothesis, the data illustrated that these same diaspora retained intergroup bias and prejudices regarding the out-group. These research findings provide crucial insights into the understanding of the Sri Lankan conflict, diaspora studies, and the relevancy of Contact hypothesis in reducing prejudice among divided group. Speculating on the efficacy of contact in ensuring catalysts for building peace and through exploring the nature of intergroup interaction among members of divided groups, the research concluded that prejudice and acceptance existed in tandem rather than replacing one with the other.