The contact hypothesis is an interactionist perspective that states that interracial contact between people of equal status in cooperative circumstances will reduce prejudice. This theory suggests that increased interaction under the right conditions can lead to greater understanding, empathy, and a reduction in negative stereotypes and biases between groups. For contact to be effective in reducing prejudice, several conditions are typically considered important: equal status of the groups in the contact situation, common goals that require intergroup cooperation, intergroup cooperation and interdependence, and the support of authorities or social norms for intergroup contact. When these conditions are met, intergroup contact can challenge existing stereotypes, increase awareness of similarities between groups, and foster positive attitudes, ultimately leading to a decrease in prejudice.