What is a consequence of experiencing relative deprivation?

Relative deprivation refers to the perception that one is worse off compared to others, which can lead to feelings of resentment and injustice. When individuals feel deprived in relation to their peers or societal standards, it often stimulates feelings of frustration and anger, which can manifest as prejudice against those perceived to be better off or more privileged.

This phenomenon occurs because individuals experiencing relative deprivation may seek to justify their feelings of discontent by developing negative stereotypes or biases against others who they believe have more advantages. This can lead to an increased tendency to blame others for their own situation, fostering an environment where prejudice is more likely to arise.

Understanding this connection between relative deprivation and heightened prejudice helps clarify the psychological and social dynamics at play in situations where people feel disadvantaged. Observations in social psychology indicate that in contexts of perceived inequality, individuals may react by externalizing their struggles, which can further entrench biases and social division.