The process of racial discrimination: towards a unified theory

Scholars in the field of intergroup relations agree that discrimination is a dynamic process with causes and consequences. However, the way in which related concepts—such as stereotype, prejudice, or stigmatization—shape this process has never been integrated together in a unified theory. This paper aims to map and describe this process theoretically by showing how these concepts are interrelated. I do so by drawing on seminal works in the field and by linking together middle-range theories that have empirical support. The result is a five-part process model of discrimination that integrates the multidimensionality of discrimination and three perspectives from which discrimination can be studied. This unified theory not only serves pedagogical purposes by providing a synthesized overview of the major theories in the field but also represents a heuristic tool for empirical research on the production of disadvantages in racialized contexts.