Research Paper Outline Example For A Psychology Paper Intro

Research Paper Outline Example For A Psychology Paperi Introduction

Research Paper Outline Example (for a Psychology paper) I. Introduction A. Topic: Prejudice and Social Influence B. Issue: Social influences affect peoples’ view of one another. C. Thesis: Prejudice is a social condition that can arise as a result of the conformity of people within a social group or society.

II. Prejudice based on stereotypes is a major problem in our society A. Comes from social stereotypes that influence a person’s attitudes directly. B. Is usually used to pass judgment on one person who is considered part of a specific group. C. Can occur in any form 1. Race 2. Culture 3. Sex 4. Vocation

III. Prejudice develops early within people, as children are the most likely to begin developing ideas based on what they are exposes to. A. Children 1. Learn quickly and pick up on what is around them easily 2. Are impressionable, especially when given specific ideas by adults. 3. Bring problems to the next generation, as they will then pass on these attitudes to their children creating a never-ending cycle. 4. Social learning theory says that today’s children are learning from everything and everyone, making it difficult to weed out and negative issues that they encounter.

IV. Psychodynamic Therapy A. Deals with unconscious thought, as this is where many fears and beliefs come from. B. Uncovers subconscious memories that can be affecting an individual without their knowledge. C. Uncovers repressed trauma, which can also be causing attitudes and thoughts without the individual’s knowledge. D. Can help locating reasons why prejudice exists, since the attitudes towards others are often pre-standing, without any reason for their existence.

V. Origins A. Other people are the base for our actions because they help to a set a standard that we subconsciously attempt to meet. B. People in position of power have the most influence in our decision making because they are a subconscious role model for the rest of society because of their place within society.

VI. Conclusion: Prejudice is what can happen when people are too easy to conform to what the majority, or even a charismatic leader, have to say. This is how cults are started, as a charismatic leaders will influence people to share the same beliefs that he or she has. This fear of not fitting in with the group will often cause a person to adopt the same beliefs.

Paper For Above instruction

The phenomena of prejudice and social influence have long been subjects of scholarly investigation in the field of psychology. Understanding how societal dynamics foster prejudiced attitudes is vital for developing effective interventions aimed at reducing discrimination and promoting social harmony. This paper explores the roots and development of prejudice, emphasizing the role of stereotypes, early socialization, psychodynamic factors, and authority figures in shaping discriminatory attitudes.

Introduction

Prejudice, a preconceived negative attitude towards a group or individual based on perceived characteristics, remains a pervasive social issue. It is often influenced by social norms and conformity pressures within groups. The central thesis posits that prejudice can emerge as a consequence of societal conformity—individuals tend to adopt prejudiced views to align with their social environment, especially when influenced by authoritative figures or dominant groups. Recognizing these influences is critical for addressing and mitigating prejudice in diverse social contexts.

Prejudice and Stereotypes in Society

Stereotypes represent oversimplified beliefs about groups that often serve as cognitive shortcuts, but they critically contribute to prejudice. These stereotypes are reinforced through socialization processes where societal norms and media propagate certain attitudes towards specific groups. For example, racial and cultural stereotypes continue to influence individual judgments, perpetuating discrimination and inequality. These stereotypical beliefs sometimes serve as justifications for prejudiced behaviors, whether overt or subtle, and can manifest in contexts such as employment, education, and social interactions.

Prejudice manifests in various forms, including racial, cultural, gender-based, and occupational biases. Such prejudgments not only undermine social cohesion but also hinder opportunities for marginalized groups, thus exacerbating social disparities. The influence of stereotypes on attitudes underscores the importance of critically examining the cognitive and social origins of prejudice.

Developmental Aspects of Prejudice

Prejudice often originates early in life, as children are highly impressionable and absorb societal cues rapidly. Psychologists suggest that children's attitudes are molded by their immediate environment—parents, teachers, and media. Children learn societal norms through social learning, which involves observing and imitating adults' behaviors and attitudes. When children are exposed to prejudiced views, either explicitly or implicitly, they are likely to adopt those views, passing them down through generations.

Developmental psychology emphasizes the subconscious aspect of prejudice formation. Children internalize societal stereotypes without critical evaluation, which can lead to the persistence of biases into adulthood. Such early socialization processes make it challenging to change prejudiced attitudes later in life, highlighting the need for early intervention and education.

Psychodynamic Perspectives on Prejudice

Psychodynamic theories offer insight into the unconscious roots of prejudice. According to Freud and subsequent theorists, many prejudiced attitudes stem from unresolved unconscious conflicts and repressed fears. Psychodynamic therapy aims to uncover these hidden influences by exploring subconscious memories, traumas, and fears that shape attitudes towards others. For example, fears rooted in childhood experiences can manifest as hostility or suspicion towards specific groups.

By addressing these unconscious influences, psychodynamic approaches can reduce prejudiced reactions, fostering greater self-awareness and empathy. Moreover, understanding the unconscious factors behind prejudice can help clinicians develop tailored strategies for intervention and social change.

Influence of Authority and Power

Authority figures and societal leaders play a significant role in establishing social norms that influence prejudiced behavior. According to social identity theory and Milgram’s obedience studies, individuals tend to conform to the standards set by those in power. Authority figures often serve as subconscious role models, legitimizing prejudiced attitudes and behaviors through their influence.

Historical examples, such as propaganda during wartime, demonstrate how powerful societal figures can sway public opinion and foster prejudice. The hierarchical nature of society means that those with power often shape social expectations, lending legitimacy to discriminatory beliefs and practices. Understanding this influence underscores the importance of responsible leadership in combating prejudice and promoting inclusive values.

Conclusion

Prejudice arises from complex interactions between social conformity, stereotypes, early socialization, unconscious psychological factors, and authority influences. The desire to belong and conform to the majority often leads individuals to adopt prejudiced attitudes, sometimes unknowingly. Charismatic leaders or societal norms can catalyze collective prejudiced behaviors, as seen in cult-like group dynamics. Addressing prejudice requires multifaceted strategies, including education, therapy, and societal change, to foster inclusivity and reduce discriminatory attitudes. Recognizing the psychological underpinnings of prejudice is essential for creating a more equitable society.

References

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