Office Administrative Assistant Practice Exam

The definition of applying a standardized idea about members of a group is known as what?

1. Stereotyping

2. Bias

3. Labeling

4. Discrimination

The correct answer is: Stereotyping

The concept of applying a standardized idea about members of a group is referred to as stereotyping. Stereotyping involves making generalized assumptions or beliefs about individuals based solely on their membership in a particular group, such as race, gender, age, or profession, without considering their unique attributes or circumstances. This often leads to misjudgments and can perpetuate misconceptions and prejudices about the group as a whole. Bias relates to a tendency to favor or disfavor something or someone, which can manifest in various ways, but it does not specifically denote the notion of generalizing about an entire group. Labeling refers to categorizing someone based on a particular characteristic or behavior, and while it can be related to stereotyping, it does not capture the broader concept of applying a standardized idea to all members of a group. Discrimination involves treating people unfairly based on characteristics such as race or gender, often as a consequence of stereotypes, but it is a different concept focused on behavior rather than mental categorization.