Which term refers to discrimination directed at a person because of their relationship with someone in a protected class?

• A. Ambivalent sexism
• B. Ageism
• C. Associational discrimination
• D. Agnostic

Answer: (C)

Discrimination based on a person’s association with someone in a protected class is called associational discrimination. This means someone is treated unfairly not because of their own characteristics, but because of their relationship to someone who has a protected status. For example, a coworker being denied a raise because their partner belongs to a protected group, or a landlord refusing housing to someone due to a friend who is in a protected class. The other terms don’t fit: ambivalent sexism describes attitudes toward women rather than discrimination based on relationships; ageism targets age; and agnostic refers to a belief stance about knowledge of the divine, not a discrimination concept. Associational discrimination best captures the scenario described.