Developing and Testing a Novel Critical Open-Mindedness Intervention to Reduce Polarization and Bridge Divides

Overview:

Researchers will study the causes of closed-mindedness and develop an intervention to promote open-mindedness and constructive dialogue by addressing perceived threats to personal identity.

Abstract:

The present research has two primary objectives: (1) to identify the behavioral, psychological, and neural factors underlying closed-mindedness and polarization, and (2) to develop a novel intervention to promote open-mindedness toward alternative views, critical thinking about one’s own views, and inclusive dialogue across difference. We define the psychological state we aim to cultivate as “critical open-mindedness,” and posit it as a key condition for learning and growth. Our approach is based on the theoretical insight that perceived threats to people’s sense of self-integrity—their view of themselves as good, rational, and adaptive—impede openness, learning, and intellectual challenge. These threats are likely to arise in disagreements over important issues that are tied to individuals' core values. However, these threats can be mitigated by brief, self-affirming experiences. Our intervention builds on research on “wise interventions” to provide people with new perspectives and tools that they can bring into their own lives to navigate disagreement. The intervention affirms individuals as agents of change, teaches them self-affirmation techniques to use in conversation, and equips them with concrete behavioral strategies. We anticipate that by engaging in these practices, individuals will exhibit both behavioral changes in their interactions and reductions in cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias. Additionally, we predict changes in neural activity, with decreased activity in the threat system and increased activity in the reward system in response to belief-incongruent information. Through this research, we will develop a comprehensive understanding of the basis of critical open-mindedness and create a theory-driven strategy to foster it.

Broader Impact:

This project aims to reduce polarization by helping people feel less threatened when encountering opposing views, using a new intervention that promotes open-mindedness, self-reflection, and respectful dialogue. By giving individuals practical tools to engage across divides in everyday life, the research could lead to more constructive conversations and lasting social change.