Ever since he lost his job because he was constantly late for work, Richard has become increasingly hostile toward the "government bureaucrats who are leading the country toward bankruptcy." Richard's increasing prejudice is best explained in terms of .

scapegoat theory.

Explanation:

Scapegoat theory: In social psychology, the term "scapegoat theory" is described as the propensity of an individual to blame another person for his or her problems i.e, it is a process that often leads to prejudice feelings with respect to another group or person that he or she blames. The scapegoat theory provides a platform to describe misdeeds or failures while carrying out an individual's positive "self-image"

In the question above, Richard's increasing prejudice is best explained in terms of the scapegoat theory.

the secretary of state, appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the senate, is the president's chief foreign affairs adviser. the secretary carries out the president's foreign policies through the state department and the foreign service of the united states.