Write a 100- to 200-word response to each of the following questions. Provide citations for all the sources you use.
• What is discrimination? How is discrimination different from prejudice and stereotyping?
Discrimination is the denial of opportunities and equal rights to individuals and groups because of
prejudice or for other arbitrary reasons (Schaefer, 2012, pg 61). Discrimination is different from
prejudice and stereotyping because rather than just holding ill feelings, thoughts or beliefs towards a
group, action is taken based on that particular prejudice or stereotype. Prejudice refers to negative
judgments and views towards an entire group of people, and is based on thoughts and feelings alone.
Stereotypes are unrealistic, exaggerated, and indefinite conclusions about all people involved in a
group without regard to the differences people have and their individualities they have to offer.
Discrimination is the act of denying equal rights and opportunities based on prejudices and
other excuses of stereotyping. Prejudice and stereotyping are based on judgments and
conclusions, whereas discrimination is an action taken by someone who holds such
judgments and conclusions towards a group of people. Therefore, discrimination is different
from both prejudice and stereotyping because it is a tangible act being demonstrated toward
a group rather than just holding thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and conclusions towards a group
of people.
• What are the causes of discrimination?
Discrimination can be caused by many reasons; through conformity of a group of peers, it
can be a learned behavior passed down through the generations, or it can be based on social
class. Through my personal experiences when I was in high school, there were two different
groups of kids that I choose to hang out with. One of
References: • Racial and Ethnic Groups, Thirteenth edition, by Richard T. Schaefer. Published by Merrill Prentice Hall 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.