Scapegoat theory

Scapegoat theory suggests that people often blame others for their problems or frustrations to avoid facing their own issues. When individuals or groups are under stress or experiencing difficulties, they may target a less powerful or more vulnerable group as a substitute for their own fears or failures. This displacement provides a temporary sense of relief or justice, but it unfairly harms the scapegoated group and prevents addressing the true underlying causes. The theory helps explain patterns of prejudice, discrimination, and social conflicts in various contexts.