Stereotypes of the Powerless: A Social Psychological Analysis

This paper advances a theory of stereotypes of powerless groups in terms of the psychological functions served by the stereotypes. In a coercive power relationship certain behavioral constraints are imposed on the powerless group. Members of the powerful group observe the resulting behavior and make inferences about the character of the powerless group. These observations and inferences fulfill a knowledge function by providing information and interpretations about a part of the environment. However, because of the structure of the power relationship, the powerful group is dependent on the powerless group and violates its own justice norms. These potential threats to self-esteem are defended against by attributing the behavior of the powerless group to its inherent nature and not to its powerless position. These observations and attributions are legitimated as part of a larger system of explanation, and members of the powerful group accept them, not only to satisfy the knowledge and ego defense functions, but to maintain the group's approval and their own sense of identity with the group. In short, in relationships based on coercive power, stereotypes of the powerless group simultaneously satisfy the knowledge, ego defense, and social adjustment functions for members of the powerful group.