Stereotypes (Hamilton and Gifford)

Question 1

Intro (Stereotyping is a generalized impression or image of…)

Answer 1

Stereotyping is a generalized impression or image of an individual or a group based upon an assumptions made from limited information.

Stereotypes is a simplified way of navigating the world → this process can be both positive and negative, where negative stereotyping can lead to memory distortion prejudice or discrimination.

Question 2

What is an illusory correlation?

Answer 2

One theory about the origins of stereotyping is making illusory correlations. Illusory correlations happen when an individual creates a relationship between two variables (events, actions or behaviors), even when that relationship ceases to exist.

Question 3

Aim of Hamilton & Gifford

Answer 3

investigate how cognitive processes had an effect on illusory correlation (the sizing of groups and negative behavior)

Question 4

Sample of Hamilton & Gifford

Answer 4

In this study, participants were told a series of statements made about two different groups (named Group A and B).

Group A had twice as many people (majority group) compared to Group B, which was considered to be the minority group.

Question 5

Procedure of Hamilton & Gifford

Answer 5

• Each participant was given a statement (either positive or negative) about a certain individual in Group A or Group B, both given in equal proportions.
• Asked to indicate which behaviour belonged to which group

Question 6

Findings of Hamilton & Gifford

Answer 6

Results showed that participants estimated that ‘undesirable’ or negative behavior was assigned more to the minority group, compared to Group A.

Question 7

How does Hamilton & Gifford link to stereotypes?

Answer 7

Hamilton and Gifford argued that the cause of the overestimation was due to illusory correlation.

As the minority group was significantly smaller, their negative traits seemed to be more prevalent and clear - idea that behaviours seem more distinct because of the fewer people in that group.

Participants were given an equal amount of both positive and negative statements, therefore there was no correlation between one’s group membership and their behaviours.

Question 8

How does Hamilton & Gifford link to illusory correlation?

Answer 8

Illusory correlation in this study convinced participants that negative behaviours were more frequent in Group B, causing them to form a relationship that did not exist, making a false association between group size with negative traits - could be applied to real life on how people view minority groups and associate negative traits and behaviours towards them.