The dehumanization literature should consider the interrelationships between other-, self-, and meta-dehumanization (i.e. the feeling of being dehumanized).

Reciprocal dehumanization occurs when meta-dehumanization is reciprocated onto the perpetrator.

Displaced dehumanization occurs when meta-dehumanization feelings give rise to the dehumanization of innocent targets.

Compensatory dehumanization is evidenced on the two subdimensions of human nature and human uniqueness, leading to both the self and other being partially dehumanized on one or the other dimension.

Cognitive appraisals of the experience of dehumanization can be influenced by personal, situational, and structural factors, and such appraisals determine the type of dehumanizing response that will arise.

Although research on dehumanization in behavioral sciences has exponentially increased in the last two decades, most of the investigation's efforts have focused either on perpetrators or victims of dehumanization independently of one another. Paralleling trends in the psychology of discrimination, we argue that a full comprehension of dehumanization needs to take into consideration the dynamics of dehumanizing interactions. In particular, we distinguish other-, meta-, and self-dehumanization and propose three ways by which these phenomena could interrelate: reciprocal dehumanization, displaced dehumanization, and compensatory dehumanization. We also review the literature that supports these interrelations.

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