Authoritarianism

A personality trait composed of three elements: (1) an acceptance of conventional or traditional values, (2) a willingness to unquestioningly follow the orders of authority figures, and (3) a tendency to act aggressively toward individuals or groups that have been identified as potentially threatening by authority figures. Authoritarianism is strongly linked with prejudicial behavior and a strong differentiation of in-group and out-group behavior. People with a strong authoritarian orientation perceive the world as a dangerous place and seek safety in their in-group. In-group favoritism is common to most people, and members of out-groups are usually perceived as less attractive and less socially acceptable than members of the in-group, thereby enhancing self-esteem. This common favoritism results in prejudice when an individual's motivation to enhance self-esteem causes him or her to disrespect other people. Authoritarianism also influences socialization; authoritarian parents tend to be firm, punitive, and unsympathetic and value obedience from the child. For more information, see Altemeyer (1996).