Final answer:
Prejudice is a negative assessment of others based on group membership, which can trigger a fight or flight response in those who are targeted. It stems from stereotyping and can lead to discrimination. Education and positive interaction are key to overcoming prejudicial attitudes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evaluating other people positively or negatively based on their group membership is known as prejudice. Experiencing prejudice due to one’s group membership can lead to physiological changes and emotional responses. When an individual is judged negatively by the in-group, they may experience a state of stress and the associated fight or flight response. This biological reaction is rooted in human evolution and is characterized by increased heart rate, quickened breathing, and blood flow changes, preparing individuals either to confront the challenge (fight) or to avoid it (flight).
Prejudice often begins as stereotyping, an overgeneralized belief about a group that can lead to biased treatment and discrimination. Actions based on prejudice can have significant social and personal implications, reinforcing negative group dynamics and social hierarchies. Overcoming prejudice involves awareness, education, and positive interactions that can reduce the tendency to prejudge others based on group membership.