Prejudice is a baseless and sometimes derogatory preconception or disposition towards the members of a community. It may have a strong influence on the way people behave and interact with others, especially those who are different from them, whether unconsciously or without realizing that they are under the influence of their internalized prejudices.
Popular characteristics of prejudice include negative emotions, stereotyping attitudes, and a tendency to discriminate against members of a community. Throughout society, we sometimes see prejudices against a group based on ethnicity, age, religion, culture, sexual identity, nationality, and more.
Although the precise meanings of prejudice offered by social scientists may vary, the majority believe that they include prejudgments that are generally negative towards members of a group.
Types
Some of the most well-known types include:
- Racism
- Sexism
- Ageism
- Classism
- Homophobia
- Nationalism
- Religious prejudice
- Xenophobia
Prejudice and Stereotyping
When prejudice happens, stereotyping, bullying, and abuse can also arise. In many cases, it is based on stereotypes.
Stereotypes can not only lead to flawed assumptions but can also lead to prejudice and bigotry. According to the psychologist Gordon Allport, prejudices and stereotypes are partially the product of natural human behavior. It is important to sort information into mental categories in order to understand the world around us.
Prejudice and Stereotyping Are Mental Mistakes
In other words, we rely on our ability to put individuals, thoughts, and objects in various groups in order to make the universe simpler and easier to comprehend. We are basically overwhelmed by too many details to figure it out in a logical, methodical, and realistic manner.
In fact, according to the article in Current Directions in Psychological Sciences, prejudice stems from a deep psychological need where people who are not comfortable with uncertainty are likely to make generalizations about others.
What We Can Do to Reduce It?
In addition to looking at the causes of discrimination, scholars have also investigated ways in which prejudice can be minimized or even prevented. Training people to become more empathetic with leaders of other communities is one approach that has seen tremendous results.
By placing themselves in the same situation, people are encouraged to learn how they will respond and have a deeper understanding of the actions of others. It is also necessary to pass laws and legislation ensuring fair and equal treatment for all classes of people.
Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-prejudice-2795476
