Final answer:
The behavior of classifying a whole group of people as though everyone who falls into the category behaves, thinks, and feels the same way is known as stereotyping. Stereotypes can lead to prejudice and discrimination. It is important to challenge these biases and recognize individuals as unique.
Step-by-step explanation:
The behavior of classifying a whole group of people as though everyone who falls into the category behaves, thinks, and feels the same way is known as stereotyping. Stereotyping involves forming simplistic, firmly held beliefs about individual characteristics that are generalized to all people within that group. It is important to remember that stereotypes are descriptive of groups, not individuals.
Stereotypes can lead to prejudice and discrimination. Prejudice refers to holding negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward group members, while discrimination involves excluding, avoiding, and demonstrating biased treatment towards them.
It is crucial to overcome these cognitive biases and engage in critical reflection to challenge our biases and see individuals as unique, with their own sets of circumstances.