Just a moment...

The discrepancy between interest and engagement for “working to achieve a mutual goal” is likely reflective of the fact that this behavior often requires intentional coordination, resourcing, and planning.

Community norms—shared beliefs about how common and valued connecting across difference is within one’s community—is the strongest predictor of interest. When individuals believe that their community values, and frequently practices, connecting across difference, they are more likely to show interest in doing so themselves. • Intergroup anxiety—the... See more

people report that they want to have experiences with others that focus on common goals and shared interests. They also want these interactions to come from a place of mutual respect and understanding.

“What unites everybody around Pittsburgh is the sports. Sports unites a lot of people from all different areas around the city that meet up at that sports stadium.” — Charlie, a 64-year-old politically unaffiliated white woman from Pittsburgh

interest in connection generally exceeds the frequency with which they report doing it. For example, even the most frequently cited activity, “engaging in an extended conversation,” is exceeded in interest by about 30 percent, on average.

The most common reason Americans give for not interacting more with people from different backgrounds is a “lack of opportunity.” This suggests that many Americans may simply not have the chance to interact more because features of their circumstances prevent it. Some (although fewer) say bridging connection simply isn’t a priority for them. Others... See more

seven evidence-based strategies that can guide community leaders, stakeholders, and individuals to foster greater connection across lines of difference in their communities. Strategies include: • Provide more opportunities for connection • Increase the perception that connecting across difference is the “community norm” • Foster feelings of local c... See more

Creating more spaces for people to work together and solve community problems v —and incentivizing engagement in these spaces by removing barriers to entry—could be an important way to engage more Americans in all forms of bridging behavior.

The most common reason Americans give for not interacting more with people from different backgrounds is a “lack of opportunity.” • About a quarter of Americans, on average, say that a “lack of opportunity” prevents them from connecting more across all lines of difference (race/ethnicity: 28 percent, politics: 21 percent, socioeconomic status: 30 p... See more