The purpose of the present study was to examine the influence that parents have on their children's prejudice. An original scale to assess prejudice toward various targets was developed. Two hundred and twenty-seven college students rated their own prejudice and perceived prejudice of parents. In addition, 152 mothers and 150 fathers rated their own prejudice. The correlation between students' own and perceived prejudice of parents was strong, but that between theirs and actual prejudice of parents was weak. Results of path analysis suggested that the effect of parents' prejudice on children's was mediated through the perceived. Variables that potentially influence the relationship were also examined, including whether the mother held a job, whether the student lived with parents, and parents' child-rearing attitudes. Results indicated that when the student had a positive view of his/her parents, and they communicate each other well, parental influence was stronger than others. This influence weakened, not strengthened, the student's prejudice.

Key words: prejudice, college undergraduates, parents, path analysis