Stereotypes, like other forms of categories, can be helpful or harmful depending on how we use them.
Effective stereotyping allows people to understand and act appropriately in new situations. A stereotype can be
helpful when it is
• Consciously held. The person should be aware that he or she is describing a group norm rather than the
characteristics of a specific individual.
• Descriptive rather than evaluative. The stereotype should describe what people from this group will
probably be like and not evaluate those people as good or bad.
• Accurate. The stereotype should accurately describe the norm for the group to which the person belongs.
• The first best guess about a group prior to having direct information about the specific person or persons
involved.
• Modified, based on further observation and experience with the actual people and situations.