Discuss the relationship between meritocracy and stereotypes of the poor. What is the role of the counselor in combating stereotypes?
What will be an ideal response?
Because meritocracy is a deeply entrenched value in the dominant cultural in the United States, it promotes negative attributions of the poor and marginalized people. Such attributions include ideas such as they did not work hard, they were incapable, or they made bad choices, hence stereotypes of the poor. The results of such stereotypes are prejudice, discrimination, and microaggression against the marginalized and poor people. Stereotypes also have psychological impacts on the stereotyped, that overall, lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy. People tend to act out the label put on them. A counselor who understands the impact that stereotypes and classism can have on the lives of poor and marginalized people should show genuine respect and empathy for the people and their life experiences. The counselor can also help combat stereotypes through advocacy, research, and multiculturally competent practice.
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a. Biological b. Genetic c. Social d. Behavioral
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a. Situations b. Feelings c. Problems d. Instrumental
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a. orthogonal b. horizontal c. parallel d. vertical
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a. Basic resources of employment b. Health c. Mental health d. All of the above