What is xenophobia? A xenophobia it is the irrational fear or dislike of people who are different from oneself, particularly foreigners. The term xenophobia originates from the Greek words xénos (stranger) and phóbos (fear).
Therefore, xenophobia essentially means the 'fear of strangers'. However, it is most commonly used to describe hatred or hostility, especially towards immigrants, migrants and refugees from other countries.
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Xenophobia is a type of specific phobia, a fairly common mental disorder. Therefore, when these views significantly and negatively affect a person's life, they may qualify for a diagnosis of specific phobia. (Only a mental health professional can make a diagnosis.)
Furthermore, xenophobia need not be limited to those people of a different ethnicity. Homophobia, fear of people from different cultural backgrounds, and even fear of those who dress, speak, or think differently can all be considered subsets of xenophobia.
It is still hotly debated by researchers whether xenophobia qualifies as a psychological disorder. Many people end up confusing xenophobia with racism, due to the characteristics presented by this behavior.
The desire to belong to a group is pervasive and primal. Throughout history, those who banded together into families, tribes, or clans have prospered, while individuals who were separated by choice or circumstances faced dangers and opportunities limited.
While strong identification with a specific group can be healthy, it can also lead to conflict with outsiders. It is natural and possibly instinctive to want to protect the group's interests. Unfortunately, this natural protection often causes members of a group to avoid or even even attack those who are seen as different, even if they pose no threat legitimate.
This type of behavior has led to countless hate crimes, harassment, wars and widespread distrust. Xenophobia has a great potential to cause harm to others, rather than just those who suffer from it.
Certainly, not everyone who suffers from xenophobia starts wars or carries out hate crimes. Most people who exhibit this behavior are able to contain their reactions and live within social norms.
A xenophobe may feel uncomfortable around people who fit into a different group than their own. Avoids specific neighborhoods, cuts off friendships with certain people just because of their skin color, way of dressing, or other external factors.
Read too: Texts on Prejudice – Reflection on Discrimination against Others