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The social effects of stereotyped behaviour
Journal of Mental Deficiency Research
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Adolescents responded more negatively to stereotyped behaviour, regardless of whether the person was labeled as a university student or having a mental handicap. This highlights the impact of perceived stereotypy on public attitudes.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Stereotyped behaviour is often associated with mental handicap, influencing public perception.
- Adolescent attitudes towards stereotyped behaviour and mental handicap require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey adolescent attitudes towards stereotyped behaviour.
- To examine how labeling (university student vs. mental handicap) affects perceptions of stereotyped behaviour.
- To identify factors influencing these attitudes.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted with 205 secondary school students in a rural town.
- Participants were randomly assigned to view videos of an actress exhibiting stereotyped behaviour or not.
- Participants were given different labels for the actress (university student or person with a mental handicap) and completed a perception questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Adolescents exhibited more negative responses towards the actress displaying stereotyped behaviour, irrespective of the label assigned.
- The sex of the respondent and previous contact with mental handicap were significant factors influencing responses.
- Negative perceptions were linked to the presence of stereotyped behaviour itself.
Conclusions:
- Public perception of stereotypy significantly influences attitudes towards individuals, even when labels vary.
- Reducing stereotyped behaviour may be crucial for improving public acceptance and reducing stigma.
- Further research should explore interventions to modify negative perceptions of stereotyped behaviour.