I CAN Explain and differentiate the cognitive attributions List and describe the 5 causes of prejudice Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007.

I CANI CAN

• Explain and differentiate the cognitive attributions

• List and describe the 5 causes of prejudice

Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007

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



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.

2. Self-Serving Bias

Attributional pattern in which one takes credit for success

but denies responsibility for failure


Prejudice and

Discrimination



PrejudicePrejudice

A negative attitude toward an individual based solely on his or her membership in a particular group.

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.



Causes of Prejudice

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.

1. Dissimilarity and Social Distance1. Dissimilarity and Social Distance


Causes of Prejudice

2. Economic Competition2. Economic Competition

One group wins economic benefits over another.


Causes of Prejudice

3. Scapegoating3. Scapegoating

Blaming someone else for one’s own problems


Causes of Prejudice

4. Conformity to Social Norms4. 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.


Causes of PrejudiceCauses of Prejudice

5. Media Stereotypes5. Media Stereotypes

When the media (films, tv, print, etc ) depicts

stereotyped images of certain groups, it reinforces

prejudicial social norms.

CAN I?CAN I?

• Explain and differentiate the cognitive attributions

• List and describe the 5 causes of prejudice


I CAN Explain and differentiate the cognitive attributions List and describe the 5 causes of prejudice Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007.

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