In social psychology, what does discrimination refer to?

• A. Fair treatment based on merit
• B. Unfair treatment based on social group membership
• C. Equal treatment for all individuals
• D. Favoritism toward majority groups

Answer: (B)

Discrimination in social psychology specifically refers to unfair treatment directed at individuals based on their membership in a particular social group. This often involves negative actions or attitudes that disadvantage individuals because of characteristics such as race, gender, age, or other social categorizations. Discrimination can manifest in various forms, including verbal abuse, exclusion, or systemic barriers to opportunities.

The correct answer highlights that discrimination is inherently about unfair practices that adversely affect specific groups, distinguishing it from concepts like equality or merit-based treatment. The other choices either imply fairness or equal treatment, which are antithetical to the notion of discrimination itself.