What is the term for making a biased generalization based on distorted ideas about a group?

The term for making a biased generalization based on distorted ideas about a group is stereotyping. Stereotyping involves categorizing individuals based on perceived characteristics of their group, which leads to oversimplified and often inaccurate beliefs. These generalizations can arise from cultural narratives, personal experiences, or societal influences that fail to acknowledge the diversity and individuality within the group.

Stereotypes can manifest in various contexts, influencing attitudes and behaviors towards those who are perceived to belong to a certain group and can perpetuate harmful biases. Understanding the concept of stereotyping is crucial for fostering more inclusive and equitable interactions among individuals from different backgrounds.

Other options like exaggerating involve amplifying traits or characteristics, while opining refers to expressing personal views or beliefs, and discriminating pertains to unjust treatment of individuals based on group traits, rather than the formulation of a generalized belief. These terms, while related to bias and generalization, do not specifically capture the essence of categorizing people based on flawed perceptions like stereotyping does.