Theories on Prejudice

Definition

Theories on prejudice refer to psychological explanations developed to understand why people hold negative attitudes or discriminate against others based on factors like race, ethnicity, religion, or social class.

Related terms

Stereotypes:

Widely held beliefs about groups of people based on simplified generalizations. For example, assuming all teenagers are lazy.

Discrimination:

Unfair treatment or actions directed towards individuals or groups based on their membership in a particular category (e.g., refusing to hire someone because of their gender).

Implicit bias: Unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions without us being aware of them.