Stereotyping is not a straight forward process and there are a number of assumptions that can be challenged.
Perkins identifies these 5 assumptions;
1. Not all stereotypes are negative
People assume sometimes that stereotypes are always found to have negative connotations or be negatively viewed in some way. Take the 'hoodie culture' as a stereotype of teenager for example as this is negatively viewed. however teens can also be stereotyped as 'high achievers' which is a positive.
2. They are not always about minority/less powerful groups in society
We also make assumptions about the higher class, for example they get the stereotype of being 'snobby'.
We can stereotype people that we don't even come across everyday, we just know them through social media.
3. can be held about ones own group
You can be apart of a group that is stereotyped itself, but within that group will be other groups.
4. They tend not to change and if they do it is hard for them to
Once a stereotype has been make and the judgement has been made, it becomes very hard to shift this preconceived image.
However Perkins states that it can develop and change eventually over a period of time. But even if they do change the same old traditional labels are still attached.
5. They are not always false
The stereotypes have to come from somewhere in the first place.
Even though they might differ when it comes to some people but usually people still conform to the stereotype they are linked to.
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