What does societal strain often lead to?

Societal strain, which arises from various pressures such as economic hardship, social inequality, and political instability, often creates an environment where people feel threatened or marginalized. This feeling can lead individuals or groups to seek explanations for their struggles, leading to the justification of discriminatory practices against others. The notion of "us vs. them" tends to emerge, where people justify their biases based on perceived differences, fostering discrimination and division rather than understanding or acceptance.

In contrast, the other choices represent outcomes that are less likely to happen in the context of societal strain. Increased understanding among diverse groups and strengthening community bonds typically thrive in stable environments, where collaboration and support can flourish. Similarly, universal acceptance of all cultures is more often a result of proactive engagement and education, rather than a reaction to societal strain, which tends to polarize people.