Investigating the Psychological Foundations of Immigration Policies and Their Role in Shaping Immigrant Stereotypes

Immigration policy has long been central to American society, structuring who is permitted entry, participation, and civil liberties. Beyond these practical implications, immigration policies reflect and reinforce public attitudes and beliefs toward immigrant groups. Psychologist Xuechunzi Bai will conduct a historical examination of how immigration policies have shaped public perceptions of immigrants. She will analyze archival materials from the Library of Congress and the National Archives and records from the Department of Homeland Security for her study.