What does the term "discrimination" specifically refer to in social contexts?

In social contexts, "discrimination" specifically refers to behaviors that deny rights or treat individuals unfairly based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, or other attributes. This involves acting upon prejudiced beliefs or attitudes, where individuals are treated differently and negatively compared to others in similar situations.

For instance, if a qualified candidate is passed over for a job solely because of their gender, this is an example of discrimination; the behavior of the employer contributes to unfair treatment based on an individual's identity rather than their qualifications or abilities. This definition emphasizes the action aspect of discrimination, which is critical in understanding its implications in societal dynamics and policies.

The other options, while related to the concept of discrimination, do not capture its essence as accurately. A negative belief about a group signifies prejudice but does not encompass the action of discriminatory behavior. A generalized attitude refers to a psychological stance that might not necessarily translate into behavior. Similarly, feelings towards an individual are subjective and do not directly imply the unfair treatment that characterizes discrimination.