scapegoat theory

Definition

Scapegoat theory posits that when individuals or groups face hardships, they may blame their problems on others, often minorities or those outside the mainstream, rather than recognizing real causes. It involves projecting one's own failures or inadequacies onto another group to deflect responsibility and frustration.

Analogy

Imagine a soccer team loses a crucial match not because of poor teamwork but blames the defeat solely on the goalkeeper. Just as unfairly blaming the goalkeeper does not address the actual issues leading to the loss, scapegoating in society directs blame towards an innocent party, ignoring the underlying problems.

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