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I CAN
Explain and differentiate the cognitive attributions
List and describe the 5 causes of prejudice
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2. Cognitive attributions are
Cognitive explanations we make for behavior…our own and others There are 2 of these: fundamental attribution error and self-serving bias
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3. 1. Fundamental Attribution Error
Tendency to emphasize internal reasons for behavior (dispositions) and ignore external reasons (situations).
In other words, people have a tendency to assume that a person's actions depend on what "kind" of person that person is…
… rather than on the social and environmental forces influencing the person.
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2. Self-Serving Bias
Attributional pattern in which one takes credit for success but denies responsibility for failure
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Prejudice and Discrimination
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Prejudice
A negative attitude toward an individual based solely on his or her membership in a particular group.
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Discrimination
A negative action taken against an individual as a result of his or her group membership….
Or…
A preconceived belief, opinion, or judgment made without ascertaining the facts.
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8. 1. Dissimilarity and Social Distance
Causes of Prejudice
1. Dissimilarity and Social Distance
In-Group The group with which an individual identifies.
Out-Group Those outside of the group an individual identifies with.
Social Distance The perceived difference or similarity between oneself and another person.
Distancing yourself from someone who you see as unlike those in your in-group…easier to treat them poorly.
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Causes of Prejudice
2. Economic Competition
One group wins economic benefits over another.
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Causes of Prejudice
3. Scapegoating
Blaming someone else for one’s own problems
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11. 4. Conformity to Social Norms
Causes of Prejudice
4. Conformity to Social Norms
The tendency to maintain conditions the way they are…even if they are unfair.
For example, male CEOs (Heads of corporations) are the norm, so it’s more difficult for a female to become one.
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12. prejudicial social norms.
Causes of Prejudice
5. Media Stereotypes
When the media (films, tv, print, etc ) depicts stereotyped images of certain groups, it reinforces
prejudicial social norms.
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13. Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007
CAN I?
Explain and differentiate the cognitive attributions
List and describe the 5 causes of prejudice
Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007