The Explicit and Implicit Perception of In-Group Members Who Use Stereotypes: Blatant Rejection but Subtle Conformity

Abstract

The effects that emerge when one observes an in-group member using a stereotype are investigated. It is hypothesized that, despite open disapproval (pilot study), people are more likely to conform to such a source rather than to a source who does not rely on stereotypes. In both the reported studies, participants were presented with the description of a Northern African (a stereotyped out-group member) provided by an in-group member and were asked to form an impression of the Northern African. The description was manipulated to be either stereotypic or counterstereotypic. While forming the impression, participants were also asked to perform an unrelated estimation task where the in-group member’s estimates could serve as possible anchors (Study 1), or they were asked to judge the truthfulness of subsequent factual statements read by the in-group member (Study 2). Results from both studies consistently show that, when the source had previously relied on the stereotype in his description, conformity was more likely. This phenomenon is discussed in light of current models of stereotyping, pointing out the limitations and suggesting some possible directions for future research.