What term describes blaming another group for the problems one faces?

The term that describes blaming another group for the problems one faces is scapegoating. It refers to the psychological and social process where individuals or groups blame others for their difficulties or misfortunes, often as a way of deflecting responsibility or avoiding self-examination. Scapegoating can occur in various contexts, including social, political, and economic situations, where a vulnerable or marginalized group is unfairly targeted for the frustrations or challenges faced by a larger group.

In this context, scapegoating serves as a mechanism for individuals or communities to simplify complex issues by attributing blame to a specific group, which can lead to hostility and perpetuation of stereotypes. It may also have the effect of uniting the blame-shifting group around a common enemy, thereby fostering social cohesion among those who share similar grievances, although this cohesion is often based on misguided perceptions and can lead to further conflict.

Understanding scapegoating is essential in the study of sociology because it highlights the dynamics of power, prejudice, and the impact of social narratives on group relations.