The Research
There have been multiple studies done over the past century the show this phenomenon occurring. Before we begin discussing why and how these social stereotypes have such an impact on peoples lives, let's properly define the word stereotype. The
word “stereotype” originated back in the nineteenth century. The Greek prefix
“stereo” is defined as something that is rigid and solid. In the eighteen
hundreds when people first started to use this term, they used it in more of a metaphorical sense than a
literal one. It originally meant an idea that does not change. From my own research of the Harry Potter, and my analysis of others research, I have deduced that one of the main reasons behind people conforming to their groups stereotype is their desire to fit in. No matter who we are, or where we are from, we all just want to fit in and we want to be liked by our peers. In order for this to happen people must conform to their particular groups stereotype. Now that we know people embody these stereotypes, the question is, why do they persist in spite of evidence that they can be hurtful and wrong? The main reason is group polarization. Groups are always together, and they are always interacting with each other, therefore the constant interaction leads to a strengthening of their groups ideals. Everyone embodies the ideals of their group, and those ideas morph into something more rigid and strong than they were before the group interaction.
Markus Brauer, Charles M. Judd, Vincent Jacqelin. “The Communication of Social Stereotypes:
The Effects of Group Discussion and Information Distribution on Stereotypic Appraisals.” Journal of Personality and
Social Psychology 81.3 (2001): 263-275. Print.
Noah E. Friedkin. “Social Cohesion.” Annual Review of Sociology 30 (2004): 409-425. Online.
Andre, Judith. “Stereotypes: Conceptual and Normative Considerations.” Multicultural Film: An
Anthology. Ed. Kathryn Martilli, Lauren C. Boston: Pearson, 2012. 77-81. Print
Markus Brauer, Charles M. Judd, Vincent Jacqelin. “The Communication of Social Stereotypes:
The Effects of Group Discussion and Information Distribution on Stereotypic Appraisals.” Journal of Personality and
Social Psychology 81.3 (2001): 263-275. Print.
Noah E. Friedkin. “Social Cohesion.” Annual Review of Sociology 30 (2004): 409-425. Online.
Andre, Judith. “Stereotypes: Conceptual and Normative Considerations.” Multicultural Film: An
Anthology. Ed. Kathryn Martilli, Lauren C. Boston: Pearson, 2012. 77-81. Print