What term is used for unjust or prejudicial treatment towards an individual or group?

Discrimination refers to the unjust or prejudicial treatment of individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. It involves actions that deny equal opportunities or access to individuals because of these characteristics. This concept is critical in law enforcement and public service, as it emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals fairly and equitably.

In contrast, while terms like prejudice, bias, and stereotyping are related to attitudes or opinions that can lead to discrimination, they do not fully encompass the active, unfair treatment characterized by discrimination. Prejudice refers to preconceived opinions or feelings toward a person or group, usually without factual basis. Bias is a tendency to favor one group or perspective over others, which may influence decisions but does not necessarily involve direct mistreatment. Stereotyping involves oversimplified and fixed ideas about a group, which can also lead to misunderstandings and discriminatory behavior but does not specifically denote the act of unfair treatment itself.

Therefore, discrimination is the most appropriate term as it captures the essence of unjust treatment, which is a key focus in discussions around social justice and equality.