Examining the Sociolinguistic Expression of Moral Disgust, and Investigating the Role of the Emotion in Inter- and Intra-Group Processes.

Abstract

Informed by Tybur et al’s (2009) Three Domains of Disgust Model, I used a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies to develop and test a prototypical model of Moral Disgust and investigate how the emotion functions in both intra- and inter-group processes. I conducted thematic analysis to construct a two-factor model of Moral Disgust informed by the sociolinguistic perspective (Sankoff, 1982). The new model identified the sub-factors Hierarchical Disgust and Third-Party Disgust and extend Giner-Sorolla et al.’s (2018) two-factor model by including considerations of group and third-party protection. The new model of Moral Disgust also supports an extension of the Three Domains of Disgust Sensitivity scale (Tybur et al., 2009) and so I also presented a new measure of Moral Disgust Sensitivity. The new measure was co-designed with participants and psychometrically assessed using classical test theory. Results of the psychometric analysis supported a two-factor solution and thus the proposed model of Moral Disgust. In addition to this, I investigated Moral Disgusts intra-group function through experimental manipulation of the asymmetrical Leader-Follower relationship (Price & Van Vugt, 2014a). Results of this investigation supported the hypotheses that Moral Disgust functions to castigate immoral leader behaviour, and that this behaviour may be selectively excused for group gain in inter-group conflict. Continuing to investigate inter-group processes, I examined the role of Moral Disgust in prejudice. I took an opposing stance to previous literature that considers Disgust as a driver of prejudice and presented results that support Moral Disgust as a predictor of disgust at prejudice, which in turn increases the likelihood of bystander intervention. I have thus presented a testable theoretical model of Moral Disgust that describes not only its components but the function that it has in both intra- and inter-group processes. Theoretical and practical implications for Moral Disgust research are discussed along with recommendations for future theoretical and methodological consideration.