Stereotype

A stereotype is an oversimplified and usually value-laden view of the attitudes, behaviour and expectations of a group or individual. Such views, which may be deeply embedded in sexist, racist (cf. racism) or otherwise prejudices cultures, are typically highly resistant to change, and play a significant role in shaping the attitudes of members of the culture to others. Within cultural studies, the role of stereotypes is possibly most marked in the products of the mass media (including the portrayal of women and ethnic minorities in drama and comedy, and in the shaping and construction of news coverage), although they are also significant in education, work and sport (in channelling individuals into activities deemed appropriate to their stereotyped group).