Question

Explain the causes of prejudice with special reference to social learning.

Answer 1

Social learning is the process by which individuals acquire attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs through observation, imitation, and reinforcement from others especially significant figures like parents, teachers, peers, and the media.

How It Causes Prejudice:

• Imitation: Children often imitate the prejudiced attitudes of adults. For example, if parents express dislike toward a particular community, children may adopt similar views.
• Reinforcement: When children use biased language or ethnic jokes and receive approval or laughter, they are encouraged to continue such behavior.
• Association: Media and social narratives often associate certain groups with negative traits like laziness, crime, or backwardness. Repeated exposure to these messages strengthens prejudice.