The Frustration-Aggression Theory And The Theory Of Prejudice

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Prejudice has been part of the American society for a long time. Since it has been so prevalent in our culture it’s important to understand what it is and theories that surround this concept. To begin, prejudice is an attitude, or feeling, that is commonly seen in the news and media. It is the tendency of individuals to think and feel in a negative way about members of other groups (Morra, 2018). For example, the holocaust occurred from intolerance towards Jews, after 9/11 Middle Eastern looking individuals were perceived suspiciously and dangerous, and the notion that all tall people or African Americans play basketball. To understand prejudice more holistically the two personality-based theories and three cultural based theories will be examined to gain a stronger understanding in why prejudice is still prevalent in society. The Frustration-Aggression Theory, attributed to psychologist John Dollard, concept is also known at “Displacement Theory”, “Scapegoat Theory”, and “Kick The Dog Syndrome” (Morra, 2018). This theory states that there are six major beliefs that cause prejudice. Those beliefs are needs, frustration, aggression, displacement, weak victims, and rationalization (Morra, 2018). First, all humans have needs which are either biologically or socially stimulated. If these needs are not met, an individual may feel frustrated. When individuals find themself prevented from satisfaction frustration turn into aggression. Aggression partners aggressive acts that