#AP Psychology Study Guide: Social Thinking & Attitudes

Hey there, future AP Psych superstar! Let's dive into how we think about others and ourselves. This guide is designed to make sure you're not just memorizing, but understanding these concepts, so you can rock the exam. Let's get started! 🚀

#Social Cognition: How We Think About the Social World

# Stereotypes and Implicit Attitudes

Ever notice how quickly we categorize people? That's social cognition in action! But sometimes, our brains take shortcuts that can lead to trouble.

#Stereotypes as Cognitive Shortcuts

• #Stereotypes: Oversimplified, generalized beliefs about a group of people. Think of them as mental shortcuts. 🧠

- **Why do we use them?** - Reduce cognitive load: Makes decisions faster. - Based on limited or biased experiences. - Reinforced by confirmation bias. - **Consequences:** - Prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory behaviors. - Can stem from limited exposure to a particular group. - Reinforced by selective attention to information that confirms the stereotype.

#Implicit Attitudes and Biases

• Implicit Attitudes: Unconscious evaluations about others. 🤫
  • May not match our stated beliefs.
  • Influence behavior without us realizing it.
• Key Biases:
  • Just-World Phenomenon: Belief that people get what they deserve.

- **Out-Group Homogeneity Bias:** Seeing members of other groups ...