The effect of induced incidental disgust on attitudes towards physical disabilities: does intergroup disgust sensitivity moderate?

Abstract

The present study investigated whether induced incidental disgust affected attitudes towards individuals with physical disabilities and whether intergroup disgust sensitivity (ITG-DS) would moderate this effect. Thirty seven participants were randomly assigned to either the induced disgust or control condition. They completed two measures: ITG-DS scale and an attitudes scale. As expected, manipulation of disgust was successful (p < .001). The pattern of means was in the predicted direction. Those who were induced to disgust (vs. control) reported more negative attitudes; as did those with greater ITG-DS (vs. lower ITG-DS). Those induced to disgust and greater ITG-DS reported more negative attitudes (vs. control and lower ITG-DS); suggesting an interaction. This extends the findings of incidental emotions and prejudice.