Lecture 5

Question 1

What are stereotypes?

Answer 1

Impressions of groups formed by associating characteristics with those groups

Stereotypes are cognitive representations that can influence perceptions and interactions.

Question 2

Define prejudice.

Answer 2

Positive or negative evaluations of a group

Prejudice is primarily affective, reflecting emotions or feelings towards a group.

Question 3

What is discrimination?

Answer 3

Positive or negative behavior directed towards a group

Discrimination can manifest as unfair treatment or providing undeserved advantages.

Question 4

What does social identity theory propose?

Answer 4

Individuals identify with groups, which drives self-esteem and influences opinions

Developed by Henri Tajfel, it emphasizes group memberships.

Question 5

What is the self-categorization process?

Answer 5

Identifying as a member of a group while often belonging to multiple groups

This influences how individuals perceive themselves and others.

Question 6

What is the in-group versus out-group distinction?

Answer 6

In-group members are seen as similar, while out-group members are viewed as dissimilar and homogeneous

This leads to in-group favoritism and out-group bias.

Question 7

What is the minimal group paradigm?

Answer 7

A method to study group effects by randomly assigning individuals to arbitrary groups

Used by Brewer and Weber to analyze behavior in group settings.

Question 8

What is in-group favoritism?

Answer 8

Initial positivity towards in-group members

This phenomenon can lead to negative behavior towards out-group members.

Question 9

What is the out-group homogeneity effect?

Answer 9

Seeing out-group members as less diverse than in-group members

This can lead to stereotypes and generalized beliefs about out-groups.

Question 10

What does the categorization-competition hypothesis suggest?

Answer 10

Viewing people in terms of in-groups and out-groups generates intergroup competition

Supported by the minimal group paradigm, it shows how arbitrary distinctions can lead to bias.

Question 11

What is the self-esteem hypothesis?

Answer 11

In-group success enhances self-esteem through basking in reflective glory

This reinforces group identity and can lead to negative feelings about out-groups.

Question 12

What is realistic conflict theory?

Answer 12

Group conflict arises when resources are contested

Illustrated by the Robber’s Cave study, it shows how competition can fuel bias.

Question 13

What are the two types of perceived threats in intergroup threat theory?

Answer 13

Symbolic (status) and realistic (resources)

These threats can lead to biases against out-groups.

Question 14

What constitutes blatant discrimination?

Answer 14

Intentional and visible unequal and harmful treatment

This form of discrimination is easily recognized and can be legally addressed.

Question 15

What is subtle discrimination?

Answer 15

Less visible and often unnoticed treatment that can be internalized

Includes microaggressions, which can be covert and malicious.

Question 16

What is the theory of planned behavior?

Answer 16

Behavior is influenced by perceived attitudes, social norms, and self-control

Developed by Ajzen, it highlights the complexity of behavior.

Question 17

What are internal and external motivations to control prejudice?

Answer 17

Internal: personal belief it is wrong; External: social pressure

These motivations operate separately and influence behavior differently.

Question 18

True or False: Suppressing discrimination is easy and requires little effort.

Answer 18

False

Suppressing discrimination requires attention and mental effort, which can be difficult.

Question 19

What happens when control is lost regarding prejudice?

Answer 19

Prejudice may leak out through automatic processes

This occurs when underlying attitudes strongly influence behavior.