ES Key Terms

What is a social construct?

• An idea created by society, not by science or empirical fact.

• A scientific theory based on empirical evidence.

• A natural phenomenon observed in the environment.

• A mathematical concept used in statistics.

Answer explanation

A social construct is an idea created by society, not by science or empirical fact, making it a product of societal beliefs and norms.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a social construct?

• Created by society.

• Based on empirical evidence.

• Subject to change over time.

• Influenced by cultural norms.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'Based on empirical evidence' because social constructs are not necessarily based on empirical evidence, but rather on shared beliefs, perceptions, and interpretations within a society.

Systemic racism involves prejudice and biases directed toward people because of their ______.

• Gender

• Age

• Race or ethnicity

• Religion

Answer explanation

Systemic racism involves prejudice and biases directed toward people because of their race or ethnicity.

Bias can be directed towards which of the following?

• Only objects

• Only people

• Only groups

• Things, people, or groups

Answer explanation

Bias can be directed towards things, people, or groups, making option D the correct choice.

Microaggressions can be:

• Only intentional insults.

• Only unintentional insults.

• Both intentional and unintentional insults.

• Neither intentional nor unintentional insults.

Answer explanation

Microaggressions can be both intentional and unintentional insults, making option C the correct choice.

Microaggressions are directed towards people who:

• Fit into the dominant culture.

• Do not fit into the dominant culture.

• Are part of the dominant culture.

• Are indifferent to the dominant culture.

Answer explanation

Microaggressions are directed towards people who do not fit into the dominant culture, making option B the correct choice.

Which of the following statements is NOT an example of a microaggression?

• "Can I touch your hair?"

• "You're pretty in an exotic way."

• "Where are you really from?"

• "You are very hardworking."

Answer explanation

The correct choice is D) 'You are very hardworking.' because it is a positive statement and does not contain any form of aggression or stereotype.

Microaggressions often convey:

• Positive reinforcement.

• Negative messages.

• Neutral messages.

• Encouraging messages.

Answer explanation

Microaggressions often convey negative messages, making option B the correct choice.

Which of the following is a characteristic of a stereotype?

• It is always positive

• It is a fixed and oversimplified idea

• It is based on detailed research

• It is a personal opinion

Answer explanation

The characteristic of a stereotype is that it is a fixed and oversimplified idea, making option B the correct choice.

What is the main issue with stereotypes?

• A. They are always positive

• B. They are always negative

• C. They are often wrong

• D. They are based on facts

Answer explanation

Stereotypes are often wrong because they generalize characteristics to an entire group, leading to inaccuracies and unfair judgments.