Stereotype theoryBy Jack Campbell

Stereotype Theory

This is a theory created by Tessa Perkins. A stereotype is the way we expect groups of people to behave based on

their look or characteristics.

The 5 key facts about stereotypes, according to

Perkins

1. Stereotypes are not always negative

2. They are not always about minority groups or the less powerful

3. They can be held about ones own group

4. They are not rigid or unchanging

5. They are not always false

Role of the media

The media plays a huge role in forming our stereotypes of people. The media portrays different groups of people in ways that mean we either relate or do not. This helps people find their place in society and see where they 'fit in'

Stereotypes are not always negative

According to Perkins, not all stereotypes are bad. An example of a 'good' stereotype is that mothers are caring and loving.

Stereotypes not always about the less powerful

It is wrongly assumed that people do not stereotype people more important than them. An example of this is calling the Prime Minister 'out of touch' due to his background.

Stereotypes can be held about

one owns group An example of this is the fact a college or school is one whole

group, but different people from that group are

stereotyped differently e,g sporty, arty

They are not rigid or

unchangingStereotypes are hard to change,

however they adapt over time. One example is the fact the stereotype

of a woman may now include 'career driven' as opposed to just

'housewife'

They are not always false

Stereotypes cannot be completely untrue or they would not exist in the first place. An example of this is the stereotype that gay people are camp and flamboyant. Whilst this is untrue in some cases, in some cases it may

be

Downfalls of this theory

Stereotypes may be wrong or negative

There are groups with which some people may have little social contact so how can the stereotype be proved true?

Often about minority or repressed groups in society.

People either hold stereotypes or not