The behavior you describe is an example of racial prejudice or racial bias. It is essential to recognize that not all white individuals behave this way, and it's crucial to avoid making sweeping generalizations about any racial or ethnic group. Racial prejudice can manifest in various ways and affects people of all races and ethnicities.
Racial prejudice and hesitancy to sit next to someone of a different race, also known as racial discrimination, can be influenced by several factors, including:
Cultural conditioning: Some individuals may have grown up in environments where negative stereotypes and prejudices about other races were prevalent, leading to biased attitudes and behaviors.
Fear and ignorance: Fear of the unknown or unfamiliar can contribute to biased behavior. People may feel uncomfortable around individuals from different racial or ethnic backgrounds due to lack of exposure or understanding.
Media portrayal: Biased or negative portrayals of certain racial or ethnic groups in the media can perpetuate stereotypes and impact how people perceive and interact with others.
Historical and systemic racism: Long-standing systemic racism has led to deeply ingrained prejudices and biases in some societies, influencing individuals' attitudes and behaviors.
Implicit bias: Many people may hold unconscious biases or prejudices that influence their actions without their awareness.
Overcoming racial prejudice requires a conscious effort to challenge and dismantle these biases. Encouraging diversity, promoting cultural exchange, and fostering open dialogue can help reduce racial tensions and biases in society. Education and exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences are essential in breaking down these barriers and fostering greater understanding and empathy among different racial and ethnic groups. It is essential for individuals to recognize their biases and actively work toward treating all people with respect, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or any other characteristic.