Factors affecting prejudice (SP)

Question 1

Evaluate a strength of social norms

Answer 1

I - A strength of social norms as a factor affecting prejudice is supportive evidence by Akrami (2009).
J - The study manipulated social norms by showing participants statements about discrimination and Sweden’s economy, resulting in significantly different prejudice levels compared to control groups, both increasing + decreasing prej
E - This suggests that what people believe is deemed socially normal can impact their views and prejudiced beliefs.

Question 2

Evaluate strength of competition of resources (realistic conflict theory)

Answer 2

I - Filindra and Pearson-Merkowitz (2013) investigated if perceived threats increase prejudice and discrimination among dominant white majorities.
J - Found perceived increase in immigrants correlated with more restrictive immigration policies, only during economic hardship.
E - prejudice increases when there is perceived competition for resources and heightened if seen as zero sum

Could also use sherif as supportive evidence

Question 3

Evaluate a strength of cultural factors

Answer 3

I - a strength of cultural factors affecting prejudice is the supportive evidence from Wetherell (1982)
J - Wetherell (1982) replicated Tajfel’s research in New Zealand. Her findings show that indigenous Polynesian children were significantly more generous in their points allocation than their Caucasian classmates. Polynesia has a much more collectivist rating on Hofstede’s individualism scale. This suggests that collectivist cultures are more focussed on sharing and cooperation, thus, reducing their level of discrimination.
E - This shows how a person’s cultural background can impact their level of prejudice towards other people.

Question 4

Evaluate a strength personality factors

Answer 4

I - A strength of personality factors affecting prejudice is the supportive evidence from Cohrs et al (2012)
J - Cohrs et al (2012) used questionnaires to measure RWA and prejudice attitudes towards homosexuality, foreigners and people with disabilities. They found a correlation between RWA and generalised prejudice. 93 people aged (8-67) from diverse social background
E - This suggests RWA and authoritarian personality may be useful predictors for how prejudices someone may be.

Question 5

Weakness of each of the factors

Answer 5

• Situation: social norms —-> Filindra and Pearson-Merkowitz (2013)
  *Situation: competition —-> Akrami (2009)
  *Culture —-> Sheif (1954/1961)
  *Personality —-> Sherif (1954/1961)