Final answer:
Option C. Out-group schemas about the opposite gender form when individuals view other genders as fundamentally different from their own, leading to in-group bias and potential discrimination. Understanding and challenging these biases can help prevent prejudice.
Step-by-step explanation:
In-group schemas are formed concerning attitudes and expectations about one's own gender, while out-group schemas refer to groups that individuals view as fundamentally different from themselves, often involving other genders. For example, if you are a woman, your gender in-group includes all women, and your gender out-group includes all men. These schemas and affiliations with in-groups and out-groups can lead to a strong sense of belonging or in-group bias, where individuals show preference and favoritism for their own group over others.
This phenomenon contributes to prejudice and discrimination, as out-groups are perceived as different and less preferred. Understanding confirmation bias and self-fulfilling prophecies can help break the cycle of these biases, as we can actively work to notice and challenge our stereotypes and the information that feeds them.