Explain one theory of stereotypes, with the use of one study.

Introduction

Stereotyping is a form of generalisation where one judges an individual based on group membership or physical attributes. One theory of stereotypes is illusory correlation.

Illusory Correlation (IC)

Illusory correlation is when people perceive a correlation between two variables when no actual relationship between the variables exists. A false correlation is the result of the fact that rare or surprising behaviours are more salient and thus we tend to notice and remember them more. Illusory correlation is an example of cognitive bias, that is, a person’s tendency to make errors in judgement based on cognitive factors

Hamilton and Gifford

The researchers showed participants statements about two groups simply called Group A and Group B. Group B was smaller than Group A and was thus the minority group. The statements were about individuals in each group and showed them either exhibiting positive or negative traits and behaviours. The proportion of positive to negative statements as the same in each group. After being shown these statements, the participants were asked to estimate how many positive and negative traits each group had.

Hamilton and Gifford - Results

The participants overestimated the number of negative traits for the minority group and rated the minority group’s behaviour more negatively overall.

Link

• Researchers argued the findings were due to an illusory correlation.

• The proportion of negative to positive statements was the same for both groups — meaning no actual correlation existed between group membership and negative traits.

• Negative traits appeared more distinct in the minority group because of its smaller size, making them seem more representative.

• Participants formed an illusory correlation between members of the minority group and negative behavior.

• This process can lead to stereotypes, where people assume all members of a minority group share negative traits.