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Stereotypes

Definition

• Generalizations about a group of people whereby we attribute a defined set of characteristics (which are often wrong) to this group
• Includes race, gender, religion, sexual orientation
• Do not necessarily have to be negative or derogatory

Effects of Stereotyping

• Leads to discrimination or violence
• Causes group members to try to “fulfill” the stereotype
• Damages self-image
• Perpetuates social prejudice and inequality
• Gives us a false sense of understanding of our partners
• Influences how we process information

Common Stereotypes

• African Americans
  • Athletes
  • Criminals/gang members
• Arab Americans
  • “3-B syndrome”
    • Bombers
    • Belly-dancers
    • Billionaires
• Asian Americans
  • Bad drivers
  • Women as geishas
• Latino Americans
  • Illegal immigrants
  • Drug lords
  • Very religious

New and Preferred Terms

• State ethnicity first followed by “American”
  • African American
  • Jewish American
  • Latino American

Overcoming Stereotypes

• Start a meaningful dialogue with an individual whose group is being stereotyped
• Try to keep communication lines open, especially throughout conflict, to avoid misunderstandings
• Question stereotypes and recognize them as “overly simplistic representations”

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