Stereotype formation

Question 1

Stereotype

Answer 1

a social perception of an individual in terms of group membership or physical attributes.

Question 2

Illusory correlation theory about origin of stereotyping

Answer 2

Illusory correlation occurs when people perceive a correlation between two variables when no actual relationship between the variables exists. A false correlation happens because of the fact that rare or shocking behaviors are more salient, and thus we tend to notice and remember them more. Ultimately, this results in a cognitive bias the can affect one’s judgement and perception of an individual.

Question 3

Hamilton & Gifford (1976)

Answer 3

Aim:
Test the relationship between group size and one’s perception of the group’s traits.

Procedure:
They showed participants statements about two groups that were called Group A and Group B. Group B was the minority group as it was smaller. The statements were about individuals in the group, and illustrated either their positive or negative traits and behaviors. The proportion of the positive to negative statements in both groups were the same. The researchers found that the participants overestimated the number of negative traits for the minority group and rated the minority group’s behavior more negatively overall.

Question 4

Linking the study to the theory

Answer 4

Despite the proportion of positive to negative statements being the same in both groups, meaning there was no actual correlation between belonging to the minority group and bad traits, participants rated the minority group more negatively overall. This is in line with illusory correlation because the negative traits were more distinct in the minority group, and appeared to be more representative of the group, leading to a cognitive bias and flawed judgement of the group. Ultimately, this may have led to the formation of the stereotype that all members of the minority group shared negative traits.