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 through showing participants different statements (e.g. discrimination against women is no longer an issue in Sweden, or the bleak future of Sweden’s economy). Results showed that prejudice levels were significantly different from the control groups, both in increasing prejudice condition and reducing prejudice condition.
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) carried out examination of data to see if when a dominant white majority perceives a threat there is more prejudice and discrimination.
J - They found that a perceived increase in presence of immigrants in the community correlated with an immigration policy with more restrict (measured by support for Arizona’s anti-immigration policy). Only the case in times of economic hardship and it was not the case at other times.
E - This is as realistic conflict would predict, 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)