The paradox of intergroup apology

Nunney, Samuel 2019. The paradox of intergroup apology. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

Preview	PDF (PhD Thesis) - Accepted Post-Print Version Download (1MB) | Preview
	PDF (Cardiff University Electronic Publication Form) - Supplemental Material Restricted to Repository staff only Download (121kB)

Abstract

Intergroup apologies, from nations, governments, public bodies and businesses, have become commonplace in the modern era for both past and present wrongdoings. Despite the increase in these apologies, current research suggests that intergroup apologies are not effective in promoting forgiveness or progressing the reconciliation process. One prominent inconsistency is that interpersonal apologies are generally fruitful in producing forgiveness. In this thesis I attempt to answer why intergroup apologies are ineffective and whether it is possible to improve their efficacy. In Chapter 2 I highlight some of the paradoxes that surround intergroup apologies – such as the fact that desiring such an apology does not increase the likelihood of forgiveness when that apology is delivered. In Chapter 3 I focus on the role of content in intergroup apology. There I show that specific strategies (such as future orientated promises and emotion expressions) should be kept separate to avoid one type of content undermining the other. The results reported in Chapter 4 provide a basis for optimism about the prospects for intergroup reconciliation, showing that the expression of guilt and/or shame can be an effective way of repairing an intergroup relationship, whereas the expression of pride has the opposite effect. The research reported in Chapter 5 shows that intergroup apologies can be effective when they are embedded within a broader reconciliation process. The majority of the studies reported in this thesis show that there are important differences in how interpersonal and intergroup apologies are received. Intergroup apologies are far less likely to promote forgiveness – confirming doubts about their effectiveness. However, I conclude that there is also cause for optimism. The research reported here shows that when intergroup apologies are delivered in the right way, as part of a broad and extended reconciliation process, they can be effective in achieving forgiveness.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Funders:	ESRC
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	11 December 2019
Date of Acceptance:	10 December 2019
Last Modified:	04 Aug 2022 01:42
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/127450

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item