Final answer:
Stereotypes function by creating expectations and influencing behavior, leading to confirmation bias and self-fulfilling prophecies. They also contribute to in-group bias, prejudice, and discrimination. By understanding their origins and challenging our biases, we can promote inclusivity and equality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stereotypes are oversimplified generalizations about groups of people. They can be based on factors such as race, ethnicity, age, gender, and sexual orientation. Stereotypes are often negative and do not take into account individual differences. They function by creating expectations and influencing behavior, leading to confirmation bias and self-fulfilling prophecies. Confirmation bias occurs when we seek information that supports our stereotypes and ignore information that contradicts them. Self-fulfilling prophecies are expectations that alter our behavior in a way that confirms the stereotype. Stereotypes also contribute to in-group bias, where we develop a preference for our own group over others, leading to prejudice and discrimination against out-groups. By understanding the origins of stereotypes and challenging our biases, we can break the cycle of stereotypes and promote inclusivity and equality.