INTERRACIAL INTERACTIONS, EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING, AND ANXIETY

Abstract

Interracial interactions are part of everyday life for many people. However, interacting with someone of a different race can sometimes be uncomfortable, leading people to avoid these interactions entirely. Research has examined what individuals experience during interracial interactions and considered factors that could potentially hinder people from interacting with those of different racial backgrounds. This theoretical thesis reviews the current research that investigates the relationship between interracial interactions and executive functioning. The literature shows that interracial interactions have negative cognitive outcomes in both White and Black individuals as shown by executive functioning impairment, particularly inhibitory control. Inhibitory control and self-regulation are commonly used by those engaging in an interracial interaction which results in the subsequent impairment. Anxiety is proposed as a possible explanation as to why interracial interactions impair cognition and increase the use of inhibitory control for individuals. Research also suggests there is a divergence in how White and Black individuals experience anxiety and display anxious behaviors. It is noted that White individuals have anxiety regarding appearing prejudiced while Black individuals have anxiety about being the target of prejudice. Ways in which to reduce this anxiety in both groups are discussed, and ideas for future research are suggested.