What role do stereotypes play in social perception?

Stereotypes are cognitive structures that categorize people based on shared characteristics or traits associated with particular social groups. Their primary role in social perception is to influence how individuals interpret the behaviors and interactions of others. When we encounter someone from a stereotyped group, our preconceived notions can shape our expectations and interpretations of their actions. This can lead to biased perceptions, as stereotypes often oversimplify the complexities of human behavior and can result in misjudgments or unfair assessments.

By guiding our attention and thought processes, stereotypes affect not only our judgment but also our interactions. For instance, if a person has a stereotype that associates a particular group with certain negative qualities, they may be more likely to interpret ambiguous behavior from someone in that group in a negative light. Therefore, stereotypes significantly impact social perception, shaping the way we see and relate to others in our social environment.