(iPoster) A VR Experiment on Subtle Discrimination and Immigrants

• In Event: Poster Sessions: Migration and Citizenship & Political Beliefs and Democratic Legitimacy
  In Poster Session: Poster Session: Migration & Citizenship

Abstract

This study explores how perceptions of subtle discrimination and economic stability affect immigrants' civic engagement behaviors in a simulated municipal setting. Using a virtual reality (VR) experiment, participants are immersed in a civic meeting scenario designed to emulate local government interactions. The study employs a 2x2 factorial design to manipulate two key factors: perceived social treatment (subtle discrimination versus support) and economic context (strain versus stability). Participants' behaviors—ranging from withdrawal to active community involvement—are observed both during and after the VR experience to assess how these factors influence their engagements immigrants in civic activities.
We expect that supportive social treatment significantly fosters engagement among immigrant participants, even in scenarios framed by economic strain. Conversely, subtle discrimination leads to reduced participation, particularly when paired with economic instability. The VR environment amplifies the immersive nature of the experiment, enabling a nuanced observation of participants' real-time decision-making, emotional responses, and behavior. We also investigate the mediating roles of perceived belonging, agency, and cultural adaptation in shaping their civic behaviors.
By leveraging VR technology to simulate real-world civic interactions, this study provides unique insights into the interplay between social dynamics, economic context, and immigrant integration in civic life. The results emphasize the importance of inclusive communication strategies by municipal officials to encourage immigrant participation in community affairs. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of how micro-level experiences influence integration outcomes, offering actionable recommendations for fostering immigrant inclusion in diverse and resource-constrained urban settings.

Author

• Elif Erisen, Yeditepe University