Theory of Ambivalent Stereotypes

The impression of other people can be traced back to two dimensions, which are referred to as social and technical competence . The theory of ambivalent stereotypes ( Theory of ambivalent stereotypes ) states that these two dimensions in stereotypes are compared: competent but cold vs. warm but incompetent ( impression formation ). Therefore, stereotypes are generally characterized by ambivalence . This applies both to ethnic prejudices (= ambivalent racism) and to gender stereotypes, the ambivalent sexism of which is measured by the "Ambivalent Sexism Questionnaire" (ASI).

Explanation : Two examples can clarify the content of ambivalent stereotypes: Jews are stereotyped as competent but insensitive, blacks as incompetent but sensitive.

Individual evidence

↑ Glick, P. & Fiske, ST (1996). The ambivalent sexism inventory: Differentiating hostile and benevolent sexism . Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 70, 491-512.
↑ Fiske, ST, Xu, J. & Cuddy, AC & Glick, P. (1999). (Dis) respecting versus (dis) liking: Status and inter-dependence predict ambivalent stereotypes of competence and warmth . Journal of Social Issues, 55, 473-489.

[1] Glick, P. & Fiske, ST (1996). The ambivalent sexism inventory: Differentiating hostile and benevolent sexism . Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 70, 491-512.

[2] Fiske, ST, Xu, J. & Cuddy, AC & Glick, P. (1999). (Dis) respecting versus (dis) liking: Status and inter-dependence predict ambivalent stereotypes of competence and warmth . Journal of Social Issues, 55, 473-489.