Explanations of Prejudice

Prejudice is influenced by factors such as our own group membership and our own experiences with that group.

Definitions

• Prejudice - A preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience, for example prejudice against foreigners moving to England.
• Discrimination - The unjust treatment of different categories of people, for example only employing certain types of people.

Prejudice is the thought, discrimination is the action.

Elements of Prejudice

• Cognitive element - People have thoughts/beliefs about another group, this is often based on stereotyping. These thoughts are often negative and based on limited information.
• Affective element - The thoughts people have about a group can lead to feelings which can be positive or negative. This involves having more than just preconceived ideas about a person or group, but also forming an evaluation of them.
• Behavioural element - When someone acts on their prejudicial attitude it leads to discrimination. This is a set of behaviours towards members of a categorised group which are unfair in comparison to members of other groups.

Stages of Prejudice

• Stage 1: Anti-Locution (speaking against) - Making derogatory speech (such as hate speech) or inappropriate jokes about another group. This is usually an opinion reflecting negative stereotypes and negative images based on preconceived judgements rather than facts. It can be seen as harmless but can harm self esteem and can lead to more harmful forms of prejudice - perhaps a self-fulfilling prophecy.
• Stage 2: Avoidance - People in a group can be actively xenofobic, showing fear of foreigners or strangers. This results in avoidance; harm is caused through isolation and by preparing the way for more harmful acts of exclusion.
• Stage 3: Discrimination - A group being denied from opportunities, goods…