Discrimination is the act of treating someone differently based on their group, race or religion. Learn with flashcards, games, and more — for free.Discrimination in this context refers to the arbitrary denial of rights, privileges, and opportunities to members of these groups. Discrimination is an action or practice that excludes, disadvantages, or merely differentiates between individuals or groups of individuals While prejudice refers to biased thinking, discrimination consists of actions against a group of people. To add, according to the book, Essentials of Sociology, discrimination is an action, or unfair treatment directed towards someone. Have you ever been unfairly denied a bank loan? USE SAME FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS AS FOR THE FULL SCALE. III. Discrimination is the unfair or prejudicial treatment of people and groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, or sexual orientation. Discrimination can stem from things like emotions, specifically fear or hatred, rules and laws, and society.