Social Psychology (9th Edition)
Social Psychology (9th Edition)
9th Edition
ISBN: 9780133936544
Author: Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher: PEARSON
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Chapter 3, Problem 1RQ1
Summary Introduction

Introduction

In this case, the answer is option (C) schemas are useful in helping people organize information about the world, but they are problematic when they result in self-fulfilling prophecies.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Correct answer and explanation

The best answer here is schemas are useful in helping people organize information about the world, but they are problematic when they result in self-fulfilling prophecies. Schemas serve as mental structures that people use to help them organize information about the social world. It includes our knowledge of several different things, ranging from us to others to social roles and specific events. They help us make sense of the world and fill in the gaps of our knowledge. We are not passive beneficiaries of information but can actually unintentionally make our schemas come true by how we treat other people, which in turn results in a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Explanations for incorrect options

Option (A) refers to schemas usually being erroneous because of self-fulfilling prophecies. While schemas can prove problematic because of self-fulfilling prophecies, they don't necessarily result in such judgments always being erroneous. So, option (a) is incorrect.

Option (B) refers to schemas usually being beneficial because they help us organize and fill in the gaps. While schemas can prove useful for helping us make sense of things, they can at times also be problematic when they result in self-fulfilling prophecies. So, option (b) is incorrect.

Option (D) refers to schemas being useful for organizing information about people but not events. However, schemas can also include our knowledge about specific events. So, option (d) is incorrect.

Therefore, the options (A), (B), and (D) are incorrect.

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