What societal issue is often exacerbated during times of social crisis, leading to increased prejudice and discrimination?

During times of social crisis, such as economic downturns, political instability, or public health emergencies, xenophobia often intensifies. This societal issue is characterized by a heightened fear or suspicion of people from other countries or cultures, which can manifest in negative attitudes, stereotypes, or discriminatory actions against immigrants and minority groups.

The psychological and social dynamics at play during crises often lead to a search for scapegoats, making marginalized communities particularly vulnerable to prejudice. As resources become scarcer and tensions rise, individuals may cling more tightly to their own cultural identity and respond with hostility towards outsiders, perceiving them as a threat to societal stability.

In contrast, options like globalization and urbanization generally refer to broader trends that can influence societal structures over time but are not inherently tied to increased prejudice during crises. Advocacy for multiculturalism focuses on promoting diversity and inclusion, which stands in opposition to the sentiments associated with xenophobia. Thus, the context of social crises underscores why xenophobia becomes more pronounced, making it the most relevant answer in this scenario.