Holiday gatherings often bring together people with differing perspectives, sometimes leading to sensitive conversations. We asked St. Louisans what they discussed at their Thanksgiving meals.
Different viewpoints were common
Among adults surveyed in St. Louis and Omaha, 74% shared a meal with family or friends from outside their household; of those, nearly two-thirds said someone at their table had a very different worldview from theirs. More Whites than Blacks reported such differences (66% vs. 56%). Differing worldviews were expressed during the meal in about half (44%) of these cases.
What was discussed?
When different world views were expressed, they mostly centered around people (63%) and politics (57%), followed by religion (41%), health (39%), money (33%), and climate (15%).
We asked the same questions in 2023 and compared this year’s responses to last year’s. We found:
White panel members reported more discussions about politics in 2024 vs. 2023 (79% vs. 71%) and fewer conversations about health (25% vs. 38%) and climate (8% vs. 29%).
Black panel members reported more conversations about money in 2024 vs. 2023 (39% vs. 24%), and more conversations about religion (50% vs. 41%), and people (72% vs. 65%).
Handling sensitive conversations
Having different world views may create tension, but also offer opportunities for growth by listening to and understanding others’ perspectives. Finding common ground can ease tensions. When needed, redirecting the conversation to lighter topics can keep the gathering enjoyable.
Helping St. Louisans navigate tough conversations
As the holiday season continues, community organizations in St. Louis can share resources to facilitate civil discussions during gatherings. Encouraging respectful dialogue can help bridge divides among those with differing worldviews.
Survey information
This week’s report is based on a survey of 254 adult residents in St. Louis, MO (n = 170) and Omaha, NE (n = 84), conducted from November 30 – December 2, 2024. Explore these data and more at iHeardSTL.
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Nearly two-thirds of adults surveyed who attended a Thanksgiving meal said someone at the table had a very different worldview than them. As the holiday season continues, let’s bridge divides by encouraging respectful dialogue with the people around you.
#iHeardSTL #HolidayConversations #Sharing #Worldview
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Respectful dialogue can help bridge divides across differing worldviews. What tips do you recommend strengthen conversations with others?
#iHeardSTL #HolidayConversations #Sharing #Worldview
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