4.2 attitude formation and change

stereotype

generalized belief about a group of ppl. can be positive or negative and often arise from overgeneralizing traits/behaviors observed from a few ppl in a group

prejudice

preconcieved opinion or attitude about an individual or group typically based on stereotypes and often w/out a factual basis

discrimination

behavior or act, often negative, directed towards individual/group based on prejudice

just-world phenomenon

cognitive bias that leads ppl to believe that the world is fair and that ppl get what they deserve

out-group homogenity bias

tendency to view members of an out-group as more similar to each other than of one’s in-group. can contribute to stereotyping

in-group bias

the preference for and favoritism towards one’s own group over out-group. bias can enhance group cohesion but also foster discussion and prejudice against others

ethnocentrism

belief in the inherent superiority of one’s own ethnic group or cultures by the standrards of their own

belief perseverance

tendency to maintain a belief even after the evidence supporting it has been discredited. It highlights diffuculty individuals face in changing beliefs even when confronted w contradicting info

cognitive dissonance

unpleaseant psychological state resulting from inconsiistency between two or more thoughts