Final answer:
Sociological theories like functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism contrast with psychological theories of prejudice by focusing on social structures and interactions rather than individual attitudes. Functionalism sees prejudice as maintaining social order, conflict theory as stemming from power struggles, and symbolic interactionism as shaped by social symbols and language.
Step-by-step explanation:
Psychological theories of prejudice, such as individual attitudes and beliefs, focus on internal processes that influence how people perceive and evaluate others. Sociological theories, by contrast, emphasize the influence of social structures and interactions on shaping attitudes of prejudice.
Functionalism posits that prejudice can serve a role in maintaining social order by reinforcing shared norms and values. This perspective suggests that social stability is achieved when societal components collaborate toward a state of equilibrium.
Conflict theory, inspired by Marxism, regards prejudice as an outcome of competition and power struggles among diverse social groups striving for resources and dominance. This perspective emphasizes that social structures emerge from and perpetuate inequalities.
Symbolic Interactionism places focus on the micro-level of interaction between individuals, considering how prejudice is constructed and perpetuated through language, symbols, and everyday interactions. It emphasizes how individuals learn and apply stereotypical thinking through socialization.
Racism, discrimination, and the culture of prejudice are key concepts that relate to how individuals and groups internalize and act upon societal stereotypes embedded within cultural norms.