Explaining the behavior of out-group members on the basis of the characteristic that sets them apart is known as the

A) fundamental attribution error.
B) self-fulfilling prophecy.
C) out-group homogeneity effect.
D) out-group heterogeneity effect.

The out-group homogeneity effect refers to the tendency to assume that all members of an out-group are similar to each other, while members of one's own in-group are more diverse. This can lead to stereotyping and a lack of individualization of out-group members. It is different from the fundamental attribution error, which involves attributing the behavior of others to their personality or character rather than situational factors. The self-fulfilling prophecy involves holding beliefs or expectations about something or someone that then influences one's behavior in a way that confirms those beliefs or expectations. The out-group heterogeneity effect refers to the recognition of diversity within out-groups, which is the opposite of the out-group homogeneity effect.