ABSTRACT
This chapter describes how peer interactions, especially when the peers come from different social groups, can reduce intergroup bias, which in turn can reduce discrimination; how peer groups have norms that can either foster or inhibit discrimination. It also describes how peers can serve as potent bystanders to intervene in individual instances of discrimination and help change the group norm; and how peers can offer social support following discrimination to help cope with the negative interaction. The chapter presents peer context research that highlights the importance of high-quality contact with diverse peers: it helps establish inclusive peer norms, fosters interest in future cross-group friendships, and reduces intergroup bias. The research on the peer contexts of discrimination has important implications for interventions aimed at reducing discrimination. In addition to stopping active discrimination incidents, peers can also be effective in changing a peer's previously held biases. Finally, peers are important for children and adolescents because they provide friendship and social support.
