Discrimination based on appearance norms.

• A. Multicultural Counseling
• B. Heterosexism
• C. Beautyism
• D. Linguicism

Answer: (C)

Discrimination based on appearance norms is bias directed at individuals because they do or do not conform to society’s ideas of beauty, attractiveness, or grooming. This can show up as unfair judgments about a person’s competence, worth, or opportunities simply based on looks—weight, skin tone, facial features, clothing, or overall presentation. In a school counseling setting, recognizing beautyism helps you understand how students might be treated differently by peers or teachers, which can impact self-esteem, participation, and access to opportunities like leadership roles or advanced classes.

Beautyism is distinct from other forms of bias. Multicultural counseling centers on integrating cultural backgrounds and experiences into support, rather than focusing specifically on appearance. Heterosexism targets biases related to sexual orientation, not appearance. Linguicism involves discrimination based on language or accent, not how someone looks.