Re‐imagining space: Conceptualizing new psychological interventions against segregationist attitudes and behaviours

Abstract

Drawing on theories, concepts and empirical evidence from the fields of human geography, social and environmental psychology, this paper argues for space-based interventions as new psychological interventions aiming to address segregationist attitudes and behaviours among co-located groups. The main premise of this argument is that engaging in spatial experiences that cause people to challenge their existing notions of place will impact socio-spatial processes that propagate segregationist practices. These processes concern how people view and attach to their place and how they regard antagonistic groups vis-à-vis place. In presenting space-based interventions, I first explain why space and place are relevant to intergroup interventions aiming at co-existence and why, therefore, a 'spatial shift' in this realm holds promise. I then engage with three different types of space-based activities stipulating their envisioned outcomes: (a) to know more about (the history of) a place; (b) to know the Other in relation to place; and (c) crossing physical and mental boundaries. I conclude with a critical reflection on factors that could impede space-based interventions or undermine their effect, and how the potential of these interventions to engage the body and induce 'ruptures' could ameliorate these constraints.