Which term refers to an unfounded negative judgment about a person or group?

• A. Bias
• B. Prejudice
• C. Stereotype
• D. Discrimination

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how to name an unfounded negative judgment about a person or group. That is prejudice—a negative attitude toward people because of their membership in a group, and it isn’t based on facts or direct experience with those individuals. Prejudice often grows from stereotypes, but it’s the internal opinion or feeling, not yet an action.

To place it in context: bias is a broader tendency or leaning that can be favorable or unfavorable and can be unconscious; a stereotype is a broad, simplified belief about a group that may be true or false; discrimination is the unfair treatment or actions toward people based on group membership. Prejudice is the negative judgment component that can lead to discrimination if acted on.