Stereotype vs. Generalization

1. Stereotypevs.Generalization What’s the difference?

2. Definition of Generalization • A generalization is taking one or a few facts and making a broad statement. • Generalizations can be false or harmful. • Generalizations usually contain words like: always, only, all, every, none, most, and never. • Example of a generalization: • Every kid is potty trained before they are three. • Most girls don’t like action movies. • All guys love hunting.

3. Definition of Stereotype • A stereotype is a set of inaccurate ideas with which a group or idea is categorized and treated by. • Stereotypes take one or a few wrong impressions or ideas and apply to all things that fit that category. • Stereotypes can also contain the same clue words as generalizations. • Examples: • Anybody who eats fruits and vegetables and works out is a health nut. • A woman’s job is to cook supper and clean the house. • Coaches are just jocks who don’t want to grow up and get a real job.

4. So…. What’s the difference? • A generalization is a broad statement that is like a “one size fits all” idea. Sometimes generalizations are right, and sometimes they are wrong. The more information you have the more likely you will have a correct generalization. • A stereotype is taking one piece of information that is usually negative and automatically assigning that idea to every person or thing that resembles it.

5. Stereotype or generalization? • Preschool is like babysitting. They just play and color all day.

6. Stereotype or generalization? • High school guys are obsessed with trucks with big tires and loud pipes.

7. Stereotype or generalization? • Blondes are dumb.

8. Stereotype or generalization? • Anybody can learn to cook; all they have to do is try.

9. Stereotype or generalization? • Your family will always be there for you.