Prejudice in the Lives of Children and Adolescents

This chapter highlights current research on the problem of prejudice among children, adolescents, and adults. Its manifestations, developmental patterns, health consequences, and solutions are discussed. A substantial body of evidence documents that prejudice persists in myriad forms among children, youth, and adults despite widely accepted norms regarding diversity and equality. Intergroup bias has early roots and children's attitudes are deeply responsive to their social environments. People who are targeted by prejudice are at an elevated risk for a host of mental and physical health challenges for both structural and psychological reasons. Interventions to promote intergroup respect among children and those professionals who work with them are reviewed. There is qualified support for the use of carefully structured intergroup contact, diversity and anti-bias education, cognitive practices, and more general supports for personal and community health. To be most effective, these initiatives need to be coupled with social justice work and implemented by those who themselves appreciate equity and diversity. Parents and professionals who work with children have an opportunity to harness and cultivate their early prosocial leanings before the roots prejudice take hold. Finally, some of the initiatives to challenge prejudice and promote respect backed by psychological research are compatible with supports for public health more broadly.