A Psychologist Who Is Discussing the Causes of Racism and Prejudice

question 302

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

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Definitions:

Moral Development

The process by which individuals acquire and understand values, ethics, and principles that guide responsible behavior and decision-making.

Relational Aggression

A form of aggression focused on damaging someone’s relationships or social standing, often through gossip or social exclusion.

Stable Friendship

A lasting and consistent friendship characterized by mutual trust, support, and understanding.

Kohlberg

Lawrence Kohlberg was a developmental psychologist known for his theory of moral development, which outlines how individuals develop moral reasoning through a series of stages.