Biased Attitudes Part 1: Social Identity and Groups

In this lesson, students will begin to explore the first level of the Violence Pyramid, ‘Biased Attitudes and Beliefs.’ Students are introduced to the concepts of social identity, group norms, stereotypes and bias. Through reflection, group discussions, and group activity, students examine the way group memberships influence their sense of self and interactions with others. The lesson explores how the natural desire to belong can contribute to stereotypes, bias, and the “us vs. them” mentality, which can lead to harmful divisions. By highlighting these processes, students begin to recognize how unconscious biases form, how they affect behavior, and how these biases can contribute to prejudice and conflict.