scapegoat theory ap psych definition
scapegoat theory, also known as the "scapegoat effect," refers to the tendency for people to attribute their own problems, failings, or negative emotions to external, oftentimes mythical, others. This theory is rooted in social psychology, suggesting that individuals or groups may disown their own shortcomings or societal ills by pinning the blame on external factors. According to this theory, some groups may focus their anger or dissatisfaction on certain individuals, events, or groups to assuage their own guilty consciences and maintain their own self-esteem.
ap psychology, on the other hand, refers to the branch of psychological studies that deal with the social aspects of how we perceive others, ourselves, and our interactions with them. It examines how these perceptions shape our thoughts, motivations, and behaviors in various contexts.
In AP psychology, students may encounter several concepts related toscapegoat theory. These include prejudice, discrimination, projection, fundamental attribution error, attitudes, and social psychology.
Prejudice is an unjustified preference or attitude that is not based on reason or actual experience and often directed towards people of different races, religions, cultures, or age groups. Discrimination is the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the basis of race, age, or sex. Projection is a psychological defense mechanism in which individuals attribute their own unacceptable qualities to others. The fundamental attribution error is the tendency for observers to overestimate the impact of personal dispositions and underestimate the impact of environmental factors when explaining another person's behavior. Attitudes are feelings, often based on beliefs, that incline us to react in a particular way to objects, people, or events.
In AP psychology, students may also learn about the foot-in-the-door technique and the door-in-the-face technique, both of which involve making small requests that ultimately lead to a larger one. The Stanford Prison Experiment, conducted by Philip Zimbardo, is a prime example of how social roles and situational pressures can affect behavior. The experiment involved assigning students to play the roles of prisoners or guard and examined the effects of roles, power, and the social environment.
Finally, AP psychology students may delve into the concept of groupthink, который occurs when a group's desire for harmony or agreement among members overrides critical thinking and the realistic appraisal of alternatives. Understandingscapegoat theory and AP psychology is crucial for developing empathy, reducing prejudice, and promoting social justice. By examining the causes and consequences of blame and anger towards others, individuals can work towards resolving conflicts, fostering understanding, and creating a more harmonious and inclusive social environment.
additional sources
- "scapegoat" is defined as the "scapegoat effect." The Oxford English Dictionary.
- The term "scapegoat" appears in the AP Psychology Unit 14 Flashcards for the College Board.
