What is a scapegoat in social psychology?

In social psychology, a scapegoat is defined as an individual or group that is unjustly blamed for the problems or negative outcomes faced by others. This concept stems from the desire to redirect frustration and blame away from the actual source of issues and onto a more vulnerable target. Scapegoating serves not only to relieve the psychological burdens of the accuser but also often reinforces in-group solidarity by uniting individuals against a perceived common enemy.

This phenomenon can be particularly evident in contexts of social tension or economic hardship, where groups or individuals may seek to blame others for their difficulties instead of confronting the complexities of their situation. By designating a scapegoat, people can simplify their experience of conflict and allocate blame in a way that feels justified, even if it is unfounded. This mechanism plays a significant role in social dynamics, prejudice, and intergroup relations, highlighting how easy it is for individuals to project conflict onto those seen as "other."