Definition: A generalized picture of a person, created without taking the whole person into account; to make such a generalization.
Context: When we stereotype a group of people, we depict all of the individuals withing that group as having the same characteristics.

We learn stereotypes as children. We often do not test what was learned so we think of this information as facts and behave as if they are truths. These beliefs are automatic and are not always questioned. As we age, we may begin to question what we have learned and start to re-evaluate why we believe what we believe. This can create conflicts in our belief system. To become more culturally competent, we must be fully aware of the indicators that our "beliefs" does not apply to the current situation.

"The human mind must think with the aid of categories. Once formed, categories are the basis for normal prejudgement. We cannot possibly avoid this process. Orderly living depends on it."
G. Allport, The Nature of Prejudice, 1954.

People often make assumptions about groups of people they don't even know!

What are some categories or "groups" that you can think of that are often stereotyped?
Answers can include:

Age, gender, sexual orientation, political beliefs, educational background, economic status, culture, race, ethnicity, religion, physical and mental abilities, point of view,

Let's take a look at a scene depicting a common stereotype. Discussion after the clip:
Diversity not only involves how people perceive themselves, but how they perceive others. Those perceptions affect their interactions

1. How did you feel when you watched the clip?
2. Have you ever been in a situation when your felt "stereotyped" or judged in some way?

Activity:
Write different titles of name tags and tape one tag to each persons back. They will be able to see everyone else's tag, but not their own. Ask each person to figure out what their tag is by asking stereotype-based questions of other people. i.e., "am I a man? am I an athlete? am I an entertainer? etc. Allow each group members to answer only yes or no. Some tag examples: Auto mechanic, professor, fast food worker, movie star.....

Benefits of Diversity:
Not only can a diversity friendly workplace enhance team spirit, it can also boost creativity and promote a sense of investment in the company. Valuing diversity in society can reap similar benefits. When we focus on differences from a positive lens, we can see that we need diversity for many reasons. Greater variety of solutions to problems in service, sourcing, and allocation of resources. People from diverse backgrounds bring individual talents and experiences to us for learning. When we learn, we grow.