3.3 STEREOTYPES

A stereotype is a simplified generalisation applied to an entire group of people without taking into account individual differences. 

Even positive stereotypes (e.g. that Asians are good at math and computers) have a negative impact because they lock people into an overgeneralization.

These fixed images are part of social representations: they are based on a rigid and persistent categorisation of a particular human group. 

They distort and impoverish social reality by providing only a simplifying reading grid.

Stereotypes are often used to justify the behaviour of one group towards another.

Examples: women are hysterical, Mediterranean people have many children, Africans are poor…

MORE INPUT: Look at this video “African Men. Hollywood Stereotypes”:

Do you know any other common stereotypes? Leave an answer in the comments.