In-group bias in prisonErte Xiao (Economics, Monash University)
Room N602, Level 6 of Menzies Building (Building 11)
20 Chancellors Walk, Monash University, Clayton
Melbourne
Australia
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Abstract: We conduct a field experiment in a typical Chinese jail to examine in-group bias within groups holding a stigmatized identity. Inmates are provided with an opportunity to work for a charity. We find evidence of both pro-sociality and in-group favoritism among prisoners. Inmates increase their effort when their productivity is associated with a charitable contribution. They work harder when the beneficiary carries the prisoner identity, indicating the existence of in-group favoritism. On the other hand, increased duration of incarceration weakens the inmates’ in-group favoritism. Inmates who have remained in prison longer are less likely to try to help an in-group member, yet this negative effect is not observed when the beneficiary is an outsider. We argue that negative in-group interaction among inmates explains this effect. Our findings highlight the importance of social interaction in the formation of in-group bias.
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