Exam 11: Section 2: Stereotyping: Cognition and Bias
Why might ambivalent stereotypes be "useful in unequal societies?" Briefly discuss the evidence.
Ambivalent stereotypes may be "useful" in unequal societies because they can help maintain the existing power dynamics and social hierarchies. These stereotypes can serve to justify and perpetuate the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges among different social groups. For example, stereotypes that portray certain groups as lazy or unintelligent can be used to rationalize their lower socioeconomic status and limited access to education and employment opportunities.
Evidence for this can be seen in various studies and social experiments that have demonstrated how ambivalent stereotypes contribute to the marginalization and discrimination of certain groups. For instance, research has shown that individuals who hold ambivalent stereotypes are more likely to exhibit biased behaviors and make discriminatory decisions, such as hiring or promotion choices based on these stereotypes. Additionally, studies have also found that exposure to ambivalent stereotypes can negatively impact the self-esteem and performance of individuals who belong to stigmatized groups, further perpetuating the unequal treatment they receive in society.
Overall, ambivalent stereotypes can be "useful" in maintaining unequal societies by reinforcing and justifying existing power imbalances, as evidenced by the discriminatory behaviors and negative impacts on marginalized groups.
What is one way people cope with stereotype threat? What are the advantages and disadvantages to this method of coping?
One way people cope with stereotype threat is by seeking out support from others who have experienced similar challenges. This can include finding a mentor or joining a support group where individuals can share their experiences and strategies for overcoming stereotype threat.
The advantages of seeking support from others include feeling less isolated and gaining valuable insights and advice from those who have successfully navigated stereotype threat. Additionally, having a support system can provide a sense of validation and empowerment, helping individuals to feel more confident in their abilities.
However, a potential disadvantage of this method of coping is that it may reinforce the idea that stereotype threat is an insurmountable obstacle that requires external support to overcome. This could perpetuate a sense of helplessness and dependency on others for validation and coping strategies. Additionally, not everyone may have access to a supportive community or mentor, which could limit the effectiveness of this coping method for some individuals.
Overall, seeking support from others can be a valuable way to cope with stereotype threat, but it is important to also develop individual coping strategies and cultivate a sense of self-efficacy in order to address stereotype threat in a more sustainable and empowering way.
Describe the stereotype content model. Give examples a group that would likely fall into each of the ambivalent and unambivalent combinations.
The stereotype content model is a psychological theory that describes how individuals perceive and categorize social groups based on two dimensions: warmth and competence. According to this model, social groups can be categorized into four combinations: high warmth/high competence (admired), high warmth/low competence (pitied), low warmth/high competence (envied), and low warmth/low competence (disliked).
An example of a group that would likely fall into the high warmth/high competence (admired) category is doctors. They are perceived as both warm and competent, as they are seen as caring and knowledgeable professionals who help others.
An example of a group that would likely fall into the high warmth/low competence (pitied) category is the elderly. They are often perceived as warm and kind, but may be seen as less competent due to age-related limitations.
An example of a group that would likely fall into the low warmth/high competence (envied) category is wealthy business executives. They may be perceived as competent and successful, but not necessarily warm or caring.
An example of a group that would likely fall into the low warmth/low competence (disliked) category is the homeless. They may be perceived as both lacking warmth and competence, leading to negative stereotypes and attitudes towards them.
Describe a real-life situation in which stereotype threat might affect performance. How might stereotype threat be triggered? What would the effects be? Are there any ways in which these effects could be reduced?
What might be a negative consequence of attempting to suppress automatic stereotyping? Describe this effect, including possible reasons why this effect occurs.
Describe what is meant by "aversive racism." What are some behavioral consequences of these feelings and ways in which these feelings and behaviors may be minimized?
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