Stereotypes

Question 1

Define stereotype.

Answer 1

• A social perception or fixed belief about an individual judged in terms of their group membership or physical attributes.
• A generalisation of a group attributed to members of a group.
• Social categorisation- social schemas. Can lead to negative prejudice and discrimination.

Question 2

What concept links to the formation of stereotypes?

Answer 2

Illusory correlation.

Question 3

Define illusory correlation.

Answer 3

• When people see a relationship between two variables even when there is none.

Question 4

Define cognitive bias.

Answer 4

• The tendency to pay attention to information.

Question 5

Define confirmation bias.

Answer 5

• Paying attention to behaviours that confirm the belief and ignoring behaviours contrary to the beliefs.

Question 6

What concept links to the effect of stereotypes?

Answer 6

Stereotype threat.

Question 7

Define stereotype threat.

Answer 7

• Indicates that internalised stereotypes could influence an individual’s self-perception and behaviour in negative ways.
• When one is in a situation where there is a threat of being judged or treated stereotypically, or a fear of doing soemthing that would inadvertently confirm that stereotype.

Question 8

Define spotlight anxiety.

Answer 8

• Anxiety linked to the belief that one is being watched or judged.