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Stereotyping is a cognitive bias where generalized beliefs or assumptions are made about members of a particular group. This bias often arises from information gaps, leading individuals to substitute specific knowledge about a person with generalized group characteristics.
Stereotyping operates as a mental shortcut that allows people to make quick, albeit often inaccurate, judgments. When individuals lack complete information about a person or group, they fill in the gaps with widely-held beliefs or stereotypes. This mental process is influenced by social, cultural, and psychological factors and can lead to both implicit and explicit biases.
Stereotyping can lead to discrimination, perpetuate social inequalities, and influence the decisions made in various settings, including hiring practices and law enforcement. It can exacerbate intergroup conflicts and hinder interpersonal understanding and communication.
Counteracting stereotyping involves increasing awareness of one's own biases, promoting diversity and inclusion, engaging in perspective-taking exercises, and seeking out information that challenges existing stereotypes. Educational programs and direct interactions between different groups can also reduce reliance on stereotypes.
Critiques of stereotyping often focus on its oversimplification of complex human behaviors and identities. Overemphasizing stereotypes can obscure individual differences and contribute to an environment that values conformity over authentic self-expression. Additionally, critiques highlight that not all stereotypes are inherently negative, but their use in judgment can still be damaging.
Stereotypes and prejudice: Their automatic and controlled components
Devine, P. G. (1989)
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
The Nature of Prejudice
Allport, G. W. (1954)
Stereotypes
Hamilton, D. L., & Sherman, S. J. (1994)
In: The Handbook of Social Psychology