Moderation of intergroup memory bias via crossed categorization

Previous work has established a bias-reducing effect of making cross-cutting social categorizations salient on explicit forms of intergroup bias. We tested whether the benefits of crossed categorization would be observed at the level of biased information processing in intergroup contexts. In line with predictions, when targets differed from the perceiver along two dimensions of social classification, this convergence of categorization accentuated the tendency for perceivers to recall more positive than negative information about their own groups relative to others. In contrast, when a second dimension of classification cut across the first, this recall bias was reduced. The findings are considered within the context of developing work on the positive effects of making cross-cutting categorizations salient for intergroup relations.