The Role of Narrative Transportation in the Psychological Impact of Film (Using the Example of Prejudice Reduction Toward Migrants)

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Abstract

This study continues a series of works dedicated to the exploration of narrative transportation – a unique state of involvement and immersion in a narrative. Objective: to examine the role of narrative transportation in the psychological impact of film, focusing on changes in prejudices toward migrants. The study involved 184 participants (M = 19.21, SD = 1.14, 31% men and 69% women). The following methods were used: Transportation Scale, Positive and Negative Affect Scale, Questionnaire for the measurement of prejudices towards migrants, the Tolerance Index, Emotional Empathic Tendency Scale, the Need for Cognition Scale, and BFI-2-S. The stimulus material used was the film Stars (2018, drama). According to regression analysis, predictors of narrative transportation included positive affect, empathy, need for cognition, and tolerance. After watching the film, a significant reduction in prejudices was found, particularly regarding perceptions of threat from migrants and in groups with high prejudice levels before viewing. The study also shows that narrative transportation amplifies changes in prejudice, regardless of their initial level. After watching the film, which depicts the challenges faced by migrants, attitudes toward them improved. The higher the level of transportation into the film, the greater the shift in prejudices. Empathy and positive affect are the most significant predictors of transportation. The study demonstrates the potential of film as a tool for psychological impact, especially when there is a high degree of involvement in the narrative.

About the authors

T. A. Kubrak

Institute of Psychology RAS

Author for correspondence.
Email: kubrak.tina@gmail.com
129366, Moscow, Yaroslavskaya st., 13, Russia

A. A. Starostina

State Academic University for the Humanities

Email: starostina.alyona@gmail.com
119049, Moscow, Maronovsky per., 26, Russia

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