Abstract

We conducted a research with Italian and immigrant workers to examine the effects of intergroup contact on acculturation orientations within three large cooperative societies. The theoretical framework provided by the interactive acculturation model (Bourhis, Moïse, Perreault & Senecal, 1997) was considered. Results from hierarchical regression analyses, statistically controlling for the effects of social dominance orientation, revealed that intergroup contact at work was negatively associated with the strategy of integration with transformation. Furthermore, the association between contact and the strategy of assimilation was negative for Italians and positive for immigrants. Results are interpreted in light of the specific context examined.