Topic: Consider 1 human service issue. It might be the lack of affordable housing, poor schools, date rape, divorce, or perhaps discrimination based on race, religion, and disability. You are not limited to these. Consider possible causes for the social problem that has been chosen. Make sure to include both internal and external reasons for the causes you think are responsible for this problem. Use your own insight, ideas from your readings, and include at least 2 scripture references that deal with the issue.

QUESTION

Post a thread of at least 300 words that directly addresses the prompt provided by your instructor and includes at least 2 references to the textbook and/or peer-reviewed journal articles. APA style

Topic: Consider 1 human service issue. It might be the lack of affordable housing, poor schools, date rape, divorce, or perhaps discrimination based on race, religion, and disability. You are not limited to these. Consider possible causes for the social problem that has been chosen. Make sure to include both internal and external reasons for the causes you think are responsible for this problem. Use your own insight, ideas from your readings, and include at least 2 scripture references that deal with the issue.

ANSWER

Exploring the Causes of Discrimination Based on Race, Religion, and Disability

Introduction

Discrimination based on race, religion, and disability remains a significant human service issue that hinders societal progress and undermines the principles of equality and justice. This essay will delve into the causes of this problem, considering both internal and external factors that contribute to the persistence of discrimination. Drawing upon relevant readings and scripture references, we will explore the underlying reasons behind such prejudiced behaviors.

Internal Causes

Internal causes of discrimination can be attributed to individual attitudes, beliefs, and prejudices. Social psychology research suggests that people often develop biases and prejudices due to cognitive processes such as stereotyping and categorization (Greenwald & Krieger, 2006). These cognitive shortcuts can lead individuals to form negative generalizations about certain racial, religious, or disabled groups. Additionally, personal experiences, upbringing, and cultural influences can shape individuals’ discriminatory attitudes. For example, if someone grows up in an environment where discriminatory behavior is normalized or reinforced, they may be more prone to exhibit discriminatory behavior themselves (Allport, 1954).

External Causes

Discrimination is not solely the result of individual biases, but is also influenced by external factors in society. Institutional discrimination occurs when policies, practices, and systems in society perpetuate unequal treatment based on race, religion, or disability (Pager & Shepherd, 2008). For instance, discriminatory hiring practices, inadequate access to education, or limited accommodations for individuals with disabilities can all contribute to systemic discrimination. Furthermore, societal norms and cultural ideologies can foster discriminatory attitudes and behaviors, creating a hostile environment for marginalized groups.

Scripture References

In addressing this human service issue, it is essential to draw upon the wisdom and teachings of scripture. The Bible provides guidance on the importance of treating others with love, respect, and fairness. Two relevant scripture references are:

Galatians 3:28 (New International Version) states, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This verse emphasizes the equality of all individuals regardless of race, social status, or gender, highlighting the need to eradicate discrimination and promote unity.

James 2:1-4 (New Living Translation) cautions against favoritism based on wealth or social status: “My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others? … But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.”

Conclusion

Discrimination based on race, religion, and disability is a complex human service issue with both internal and external causes. Internal causes encompass individual attitudes, beliefs, and prejudices shaped by cognitive processes and personal experiences. External causes involve systemic discrimination perpetuated by institutions, societal norms, and cultural ideologies. Combating discrimination requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both individual biases and systemic inequities. By recognizing the inherent worth and equality of all individuals, as emphasized in scripture, we can work towards a more inclusive and just society.

References

Allport, G. W. (1954). The nature of prejudice. Basic Books. https://faculty.washington.edu/caporaso/courses/203/readings/allport_Nature_of_prejudice.pdf 

Greenwald, A. G., & Krieger, L. H. (2006). Implicit bias: Scientific foundations. California Law Review, 94(4), 945-967. https://www.jstor.org/stable/20439056 

Pager, D., & Shepherd, H. (2008). The sociology of discrimination: Racial discrimination in employment, housing, credit, and consumer markets. Annual Review of Sociology, 34, 181-209. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2915460/