Question

Use application of Social Psychology on a problem or issue. Whatever the issue/problem identified, please be clear and concrete defining it. Please write about how Social Psychology can (a) help one understand a cause of problem, and (b) suggest a solution to the problem. Focus on applying a small number (1 or 2) of Social Psychological principles to the issue with a complex, thoughtful analysis. The solution proposed should follow directly from the cause described.

Answer 1

Problem identified: Racism

a) According to Social Psychology, human beings have an innate tendency to classify their experience into categories in order to make sense of the complex and seemingly endless stimuli in their environment. This tendency also takes place in our interaction with others wherein we place people into categories. This leads us to naturally distinguish members of in-groups from members of out-groups, resulting in the formation of stereotypes in general and negative stereotypes in particular.

b) In order to prevent discriminatory behaviour resulting from stereotypes, intergroup-contact hypothesis was proposed as a solution. According to this model, positive conditions such cooperation towards shared goals, equal status between groups, and the support of local authorities and cultural norms can reduce prejudice towards members of the out-group.