A Psychologist Who Is Discussing the Causes of Racism and Prejudice

question 375

Multiple Choice

A psychologist who is discussing the causes of racism and prejudice argues that these negative beliefs are caused primarily by people's needs to enhance their self-esteem and to feel good about themselves. This psychologist's explanation is most consistent with

• A)the fundamental attribution error
• B)social identity theory
• C)the self-serving bias
• D)realistic conflict theory
• E)self-fulfilling prophecy

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Definitions:

Correctional Institutions

Facilities designated for incarcerating individuals who have been convicted of crimes, focusing on punishment, rehabilitation, and the safeguarding of society.

Neurotics and Psychotics

Refers to individuals experiencing, respectively, mild mental health issues often related to stress and anxiety, and more severe mental disorders that significantly interfere with perception of reality.

Real World

Actual conditions and circumstances in which people live and interact, as opposed to theoretical or simulated environments.

Unconscious Influences

The effects on an individual's thoughts, feelings, or actions by processes or contents in the mind that operate without conscious awareness.