Discrimination refers to the unfair or prejudiced treatment of individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. This treatment often results in unequal opportunities, exclusion, or harm, impacting the affected individuals’ rights and well-being. Discrimination can manifest in various forms, including direct actions like denying someone a job due to their ethnicity or indirect practices that disproportionately disadvantage certain groups, such as workplace policies that inadvertently exclude individuals with disabilities.
For example, in a hiring scenario, if a qualified candidate is overlooked for a position solely because of their gender, this constitutes discrimination. The effects of such biased behavior can lead to a toxic work environment, legal consequences, and damage to an organization’s reputation.
Related Terms:
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
