Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 58%

What is an example of a prejudice-reducing strategy, based on Allport’s view of personality development?

Rationale

Create activities where people have to meet a common goal.

Allport's view of personality development emphasizes the importance of cooperative interactions between different groups as a way to reduce prejudice. Activities that require individuals to work together toward a shared objective foster mutual understanding and diminish stereotypes, thereby promoting more positive intergroup relations.

A (Encourage formation of in-groups to provide a sense of belonging.) YOUR ANSWER

While forming in-groups can offer social support and belonging, it can also lead to increased bias against out-groups. Allport's theory suggests that simply promoting in-groups does not address prejudices but can reinforce them by creating an "us vs. them" mentality, rather than fostering cooperation between groups.

B (Focus on the oppression of groups to create understanding.) YOUR ANSWER

Highlighting the oppression faced by certain groups can raise awareness, but it may also evoke defensiveness or guilt among those not affected. This approach might not effectively reduce prejudice as it does not encourage direct, positive interactions or collaborative efforts that build understanding among diverse groups.

C (Increase contact through intergroup competition.) YOUR ANSWER

Introducing competition between groups can exacerbate tensions and reinforce negative stereotypes. Allport's theories support the idea that contact should be cooperative rather than competitive; fostering competition can intensify hostility rather than reduce prejudice, which does not align with his views on personality development.

Conclusion

In summary, Allport's perspective on prejudice reduction highlights the value of cooperative activities where individuals from diverse backgrounds work together towards a common goal. Such interactions help dismantle biases and promote a more inclusive environment. Strategies that rely on competition or solely focus on oppression fail to create the supportive relationships necessary for meaningful change in attitudes and perceptions.

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