Which term describes negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors directed toward those with less power in a hierarchical social structure?

• A. Aversive racism
• B. Benevolent sexism
• C. Co-ethnic
• D. Classism

Answer: (D)

Classism is prejudice and discrimination directed at people based on their social class, especially toward those with less power in a hierarchical system. In societies with clear power structures, individuals from higher classes often hold more influence and resources, and classist attitudes justify or rationalize treating lower-class individuals as inferior. This can show up as negative beliefs about worth or competence, along with discriminatory behaviors and policies that maintain economic and social gaps. So the term that best captures attitudes, beliefs, and actions aimed at people with less power in a hierarchy is classism.

Aversive racism focuses on subtle, race-based bias; benevolent sexism centers on protective, positive-sounding but still hierarchical views about gender; and co-ethnic refers to shared ethnicity, not a framework for disfavoring people based on class and power dynamics.