What is a stereotype?

A stereotype is accurately described as a generalized belief about a group of people. This definition emphasizes that stereotypes involve oversimplifying and categorizing characteristics or traits of individuals based on their belonging to a particular group, such as race, gender, occupation, or other attributes. Stereotypes often stem from cultural perceptions or societal norms and can lead to misunderstandings and biases, as they do not take into account the individual differences within those groups.

While personal beliefs based on emotions may influence how someone perceives a group, this does not fully capture the essence of a stereotype. Similarly, an opinion based on facts suggests a level of accuracy and analysis that is typically absent in stereotypes, which are often unfounded. Lastly, while statistical representations can provide data about groups, they do not equate to the generalized beliefs that define stereotypes, which may not accurately reflect the reality of individual experiences.