Discrimination is the act of making unjustified distinctions between human beings based on the groups, classes, or other categories to which they are perceived to belong.[1] People may be discriminated on the basis of race, gender, age or sexual orientation, as well as other categories.[2] Discrimination especially occurs when individuals or groups are unfairly treated in a way which is worse than other people are treated, on the basis of their actual or perceived membership in certain groups or social categories.[2][3] It involves restricting members of one group from opportunities or privileges that are available to members of another group.[4]

Discrimination is a term used to describe the unfair treatment or prejudice against individuals or groups based on certain characteristics or attributes. It involves treating someone differently or denying them certain rights, opportunities, or privileges due to factors such as race, gender, religion, age, disability, or social status. Discrimination can occur in various settings, including schools, workplaces, public spaces, and even within families or communities.


Discrimination can manifest in different forms, such as:

1. Racial Discrimination: This occurs when someone is treated unfairly or unequally due to their race or ethnicity. It can involve exclusion, stereotypes, or prejudice based on skin color, language, or cultural background.

2. Gender Discrimination: Gender-based discrimination occurs when individuals are treated differently based on their gender. This can include unequal pay, limited job opportunities, or unequal treatment based on societal expectations or stereotypes.

3. Religious Discrimination: Discrimination based on religion involves treating individuals unfairly due to their religious beliefs or practices. It can include exclusion, prejudice, or even violence against people of certain religious backgrounds.

4. Age Discrimination: Age-based discrimination occurs when individuals are treated unfairly due to their age, either being too young or too old. This can affect employment opportunities, access to services, or the stereotyping of capabilities based on age.

5. Disability Discrimination: Discrimination against individuals with disabilities involves treating them unfairly or denying them equal access to opportunities, services, or facilities due to their physical or mental impairments.


Discrimination can have significant negative impacts on individuals and communities, including:

- Psychological Effects: Discrimination can lead to feelings of anger, frustration, low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression in the victims. It can also create a hostile or unwelcoming environment, affecting mental well-being.

- Social Exclusion: Discrimination can result in the exclusion of certain individuals or groups from social interactions, opportunities, or participation in societal activities. This can lead to feelings of isolation and marginalization.

- Reduced Opportunities: Discrimination can limit the opportunities available to individuals, affecting their education, employment, and overall social and economic well-being. It can perpetuate inequality and hinder social progress.

- Conflict and Injustice: Discrimination can create tension, conflicts, and divisions within communities. It perpetuates unfairness and injustice by denying equal rights and opportunities to certain individuals or groups.

In conclusion, discrimination is the unfair treatment or prejudice against individuals or groups based on various characteristics. It can take different forms and has significant negative impacts on individuals and society. Promoting equality, understanding, and acceptance are essential to combat discrimination and create a more inclusive and just society.