schemas + stereotypes

social information processing

the techniques, shortcuts, systems in place for taking in + acting upon information

two examples of social information processing (SIP) theory

schemas + stereotypes

schema

mental frameworks that help people understand + interpret social interactions

two basic stages of schemas

identification + application

stages of schemas

selective encoding, selective retrieval, interpretation

rothbarts 3-processing model of schema change

book-keeping model, conversion model, subtyping model

book-keeping model

updates as it gets new bits of information

conversion model

disconfirming info accumulates until a critical mass is reached

subtyping model

changing configuration in response to certain instances by formation of subcategories

features used as a basis for categorisation

vividness, saliency, accessibility

good fortune priming

influencing someones thoughts to increase their perceived likelihood of experiencing good luck + outcomes

personal merit priming

activating beliefs about meritocracy influences how people perceive + react to social inequalities

stereotype

an often unfair and untrue generalised belief that people share about certain people or groups

when stereotypes are more likely to be used

lack of motivation, lack of time, cognitive capacity/load

the kernel of truth hypothesis

sometimes stereotypes contain a small element of the truth that accurately describes a quality of the stereotyped group

stereotype threat

when there are negative stereotypes about a person’s group, they become concerned about being treated negatively on the basis of this stereotype