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Publication Date

2011

Document Type

Honors Project

Department

Psychology

Keywords

Image (Philosophy), Stereotypes (Social psychology), International relations, Intergroup relations, College students-Uruguay-Attitudes, College students-Brazil-Attitudes, Images, Image theory, Stereotype control model, Inter-group relationships

Abstract

Both the Stereotype Content Model and Image Theory postulate that out-group stereotypes derive from perceptions of structural inter-group relationships. Using samples of Brazilian and Uruguayan university students, I found substantial evidence that supports the implications of each theory. Structural variables predicted the out-group stereotypes and images of Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay confirming the theoretical framework presented by the theories. In the context of in-group perceptions, stereotypes and images participants held of their own countries demonstrated a general positivity bias. I also found support for the connection between perceptions of in-group structural variables and in-group stereotype content. In accordance with the Stereotype Content Model, I found that the perception of resources and social well-being combined to predict in-group competence. However, perceptions of resources, social well-being, and power predicted in-group warmth. This implies that high-status groups underestimate the potential threat posed by their power and resources in a manner that boosts their in-group warmth perception. This finding indicates a problematic distortion among in-group perceptions and offers insight to the possible origin of inter-group misunderstandings.

Language

English

Comments

62 p. : ill. Honors project-Smith College, Northampton, Mass., 2011. Includes bibliographical references (p. 60-62)

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