Categorization, Stereotyping, and Prejudice

Flashcards created to help understand key terminology related to categorization, stereotyping, and prejudice.

Stereotype

A belief that associates a group of people with certain traits; may not be accurate but can include a kernel of truth.

Ingroup

A group to which an individual belongs.

Outgroup

A group to which an individual does not belong.

Ingroup Bias

The tendency to favor members of one's own group over those of outgroups.

Outgroup Homogeneity Effect

The tendency to see outgroup members as more similar to each other than they actually are.

Minimal Group Paradigm

A method that creates arbitrary groups to study intergroup behavior and bias.

Metacontrast Principle

The principle that exaggerates differences between categories and minimizes differences within categories.

Illusory Correlation

The perceived relationship between two events that are not actually correlated.

Subcategorization

Creating a subordinate category for deviant members that allows the use of stereotypes without acknowledging prejudice.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

When expectations about an individual lead to behavior that confirms those expectations.

Social Identity Theory

A theory positing that a person’s self-esteem is derived from their group memberships.

Optimal Distinctiveness Theory

A theory suggesting that people seek a balance between assimilation into a group and differentiation from others.