This study uses integrated threat theory to examine Dutch adolescents’ (N ¼ 1; 187)
prejudice towards Muslim minorities. One out of two participants was found to have
negative feelings towards Muslims. Perceived symbolic and realistic threat and negative
stereotypes were examined as mediators between antecedent factors (in-group
identification, intergroup contact, and the endorsement of multiculturalism) and
prejudice. Based on structural equation modelling, it was found that stereotypes and
symbolic threats, but not realistic threats, predicted prejudice towards Muslims.
Further, it was found that the effect of in-group identification on prejudice was fully
mediated by symbolic threat, the effect of contact was partially mediated by
stereotypes, and the effect of the endorsement of multiculturalism was mediated by
both symbolic threat and stereotypes. In addition, contact and multiculturalism were
directly associated with prejudice towards Muslims. The theoretical and practical
implications of these findings are discussed.