National Investigators Exam (NIE) Practice Exam

Which of the following best explains discrimination by perception?

1. Believing that an individual belongs to a protected characteristic group

2. Discrimination against associated persons

3. Negative treatment based on personal beliefs

4. Unfavorable treatment due to workplace policies

The correct answer is: Believing that an individual belongs to a protected characteristic group

Discrimination by perception occurs when an individual is treated differently because others believe them to belong to a group that has protected characteristics, regardless of whether that belief is accurate. This means that someone may face discrimination based solely on others' assumptions or stereotypes about their identity, such as race, gender, religion, or other traits. In this context, the notion that someone is perceived to belong to a protected characteristic group captures the essence of discrimination by perception. It emphasizes the role of external opinions and biases, rather than the actual characteristics of the individual. This highlights the impact of societal attitudes and perceptions on how individuals are treated, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing bias in various settings. While the other options describe different forms of discrimination or negative treatment, they do not encapsulate the concept of discrimination by perception as effectively. For instance, discrimination against associated persons deals more with repercussions for those connected to individuals in protected groups, and unfavourable treatment due to workplace policies shifts focus to institutional discrimination rather than perceptions of identity. Negative treatment based on personal beliefs touches on subjective viewpoints but does not specifically relate to the concept of perception in terms of assumed affiliation with a particular group.