What Are Common Stereotypes? (And Why They’re Harmful)

Common stereotypes have permeated culture and may affect how some individuals interact with each other on a day-to-day basis. Understanding the implications, sources, and types of stereotyping that exist can lead to a more tolerant and informed society. Due to this understanding, ongoing discussion for the greater good of underrepresented groups may be encouraged. Below, explore the psychology behind stereotyping, the effects that common stereotypes may have on mental health, and the importance of putting an end to making broad generalizations about certain groups and individuals.

What are stereotypes?

Stereotypes are generally defined as oversimplified ideas and assumptions surrounding certain groups of people. By stereotyping someone, you may assume that a person has a certain range of characteristics based on your beliefs about the characteristics of the group with which they are associated. For example, many people associate dark make-up and clothing with the “goth” or “alternative” lifestyle and fashion trend. Having a background in the theory of classical conditioning may help you understand where stereotypes come from. 

What is classical conditioning in the context of stereotyping?

Generally, all humans are exposed to forms of classical conditioning throughout their lives. Classical conditioning consists of pairing an automatic response to a specific stimulus. This type of learning might occur on a subconscious level. To understand classical conditioning, identifying examples of your own conditioning may be helpful. For example, if you always order a certain dish at your favorite restaurant, passing by it may incite a craving for that particular dish. 

Many think classical conditioning relates to stereotyping through generalization. Generalization can occur when you generalize stimuli with responses, which can be somewhat synonymous with stereotyping.

How are stereotypes harmful? 

Stereotypes and generalizations can influence individuals' behavior with others based on preconceived notions. Behavior that is influenced by stereotyping can range anywhere from fairly neutral to incredibly problematic.

While stereotypes, in some cases, can seem somewhat harmless and may be leveraged for laughs in popular media, generalizations like these can either stem from or lead to much more dangerous generalizations that can have lasting ramifications on a societal subgroup. 

It is not uncommon for instances of stereotyping that may seem “minor” to cause harm in major ways. For example, someone may experience poorer service at a restaurant based on a misinformed stereotype that the people of their subgroup are “bad” tippers. Interactions like this are typically referred to as “microaggressions”. 

Current research suggests that experiencing repeated exposure to microaggressions can lead to a cascade of stress-related physical and psychological issues. While this can have detrimental effects, therapy can be a useful resource to leverage, possibly offering those affected a listening ear and helpful behavioral suggestions to defend themselves and others.  

When stereotyping leads to the unfair or prejudicial treatment of people and groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, or sexual orientation, it can fall under the category of discrimination. According to the American Psychological Association, discrimination is formally classified as a public health issue. 

Discrimination can occur in several major ways, which is why awareness and transparency can serve society in general. While laws in the United States that aim to defend people from discrimination in critical matters, such as housing and employment, discrimination may occur in other contexts.

If you or someone you know is experiencing discrimination, you may consider reaching out to a licensed therapist. They can be a resource to all involved and may be able to offer supportive strategies to lessen the impacts of discrimination.  

The importance of putting an end to common stereotypes

Stereotyping and discrimination do more than offend. Discrimination can cause harm on an institutional level. 

Institutional discrimination can lead to numerous issues availing basic survival needs, such as employment, healthcare, and housing for entire groups. 

While many studies published within the last decade have mainly focused on gender or race-based discrimination, recent studies surrounding weight discrimination bring up similar institutional considerations, particularly in the areas of availability of quality healthcare. Ending stereotyping can begin with exercises and awareness to encourage the development of empathy for others. Educating yourself about other people, cultures, and walks of life can often be critical. It can also be helpful to take a self-assessment of your beliefs and evaluate how stereotypes may have affected your life and interactions with people.

Benefits of online therapy for those experiencing discrimination

Experiencing discrimination or microaggressions based on generalizations and stereotypes has been clinically suggested to have adverse effects on mental health. While seeking support from your community is often helpful, speaking with a mental health professional online through a platform like BetterHelp can also be helpful. For many, online therapy can offer a more affordable alternative to traditional in-person therapeutic methods. In addition, clients can choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions, giving them more control over how they receive support.

Is online therapy effective? 

Per a study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research Mental Health, online therapy is suggested to be highly effective in reducing symptoms of certain mental illnesses, including those associated with depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, online therapy is also suggested to be equally as effective as in-person therapy in the resolution of these conditions.