Which term describes blaming a convenient group of people for problems in one's life or in the community?

• A. Scapegoating
• B. Stereotyping
• C. Ethnicity
• D. Culture

Answer: (A)

Scapegoating is blaming a convenient group of people for problems in one's life or in the community. It happens when someone tries to dodge responsibility by pointing to an easy target, often a group that is scapegoated because they’re seen as different or vulnerable. This act lets people vent frustration and can justify prejudice or discriminatory behavior, especially during times of trouble or uncertainty. It’s not just about labeling others; it’s about shifting accountability away from real, often more complex causes. Stereotyping involves broad, generalized beliefs about a group, and ethnicity or culture describe groups’ identities, not the act of assigning blame.