Stereotype Change

Stereotype change is modifying/updating a previously held stereotypical belief about a group—usually exposure to new information contradicts the existing stereotype, leading to a more accurate perception. It can be gradual through accumulating disconfirming evidence or more dramatic caused by a significant counter-stereotypic encounter. Counter-stereotypic individuals can lead to stereotype change — but effectiveness depends on such factors as: the individual’s salience, the number of counter-stereotypic examples, and how readily the new information is integrated into existing beliefs. Changes in societal norms, media representation, and social movements can also influence stereotype change by making certain stereotypes less acceptable or by highlighting individuals who defy stereotypes. A person holding a stereotype that engineers are not into the arts may change their mind after meeting an artist engineer. Different cognitive theories explain how stereotypes change:

• Bookkeeping model: Gradual change with each piece of disconfirming information
• Conversion model: Sudden change due to a powerful counter-stereotypic example
• Subtyping model: Create subgroups within groups for individuals who don’t fit the stereotype