What is prejudice?

Prejudice is defined as an unjustified negative attitude directed toward individuals based solely on their membership in a particular social group. This can manifest as bias or discrimination against individuals based on characteristics such as race, gender, ethnicity, or other identity factors. Prejudice typically occurs without a thorough examination of the individual’s actual behaviors or qualities, which is why it is deemed unjustified.

In contrast to the other options, prejudice does not involve accurate assessments of behavior, nor is it a justified attitude. Furthermore, it does not relate to a positive acknowledgment of someone's qualities; rather, it reflects a harmful and negative perception that can lead to stereotyping and social division. Understanding prejudice is crucial in social psychology as it impacts interpersonal relationships and societal dynamics, highlighting the need for awareness and intervention to promote equity and understanding among diverse groups.