Attributing clusters of traits to specific categories of individuals and objects, which serves an important purpose in human social cognition, is called
A) stereotyping
B) in-group bias
C) out-group homogeneity
D) prejudice

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stereotyping is the attribution of clusters of traits to specific categories of individuals and objects. It serves an important purpose in human social cognition as it helps us to simplify information processing and make quick judgments about others. However, it can also lead to prejudice and discrimination when these judgments are based on inaccurate or negative beliefs about a particular group.

Attributing Clusters of Traits to Specific Categories of Individuals and Objects