Explain one theory related to the formation of stereotypes, making use of one study.S

Stereotypes

• Stereotypes are cognitive generalisations about the qualities and characteristics of members of a group 

• Such generalisations can be positive or negative 

Stereotype formation

• As our social world is extremely complex, we tend to find trends that can simplify our perception and judgements and thus, make the process of acquiring information easier, leading to stereotype formation

Formation of stereotype can be explained by theory of illusionary correlation

• The formation of stereotypes can be explained by the theory of illusory correlation, which is the phenomenon of mistakenly associating two events due to them happening simultaneously because they stood out 

  • because rare occurrences are more noticeable and therefore tend to capture one’s attention

Theory of illusionary correlation - ethinic minority

• They argue that negative behaviours are relatively rare and that people from minority groups are also relatively rare so when one sees a minority person performing a negative act, it is more memorable than when one sees a person from a majority group performing the same act

Stereotyping

• This forms the basis for stereotyping as we notice the negative behaviour from the minority group more and we are more likely to build our view of that group from the negative behaviour 

• Stereotypes may lead to confirmation bias, which is paying attention to details that are in line with the stereotypes while ignoring those that do not 

• As a result, stereotypes are often resistant to change even when people encounter individuals with qualities that contradict the stereotype