ABSTRACT
When discussing the conditions that should be established for prejudice to be reduced between people or groups, the best-known and most thoroughly researched strategy in the school of social psychology is the contact hypothesis. This chapter investigates the contact hypothesis’ core principles before turning to the substantial research that has been conducted since its inception in the 1950s to show its effectiveness. The chapter will critically examine the reliability and validity of the case studies mentioned. The second half of this chapter looks at known, tried and tested applications of the theory in classroom settings but also outside of the world of education. This information allows for a synthesis of best practice that can be considered when applying the contact hypothesis in schools.
