Hamilton and Gifford

• What was the aim of the study?


  To investigate how group size influences perceptions of positive and negative traits, particularly in minority groups.
• Who participated in the study?

  40 American undergraduates, with 20 males and 20 females.
• How were the groups in the study structured?

  Group A: majority group with 26 members.

  Group B: minority group with 13 members.
• What type of statements were shown about each group?


  Both positive and negative statements were shown, with the same proportion for each group.
• What were the participants asked to do after viewing the slides?


  Rank members of each group based on 20 traits. Match statements to Group A or Group B using a booklet. Estimate how many statements for each group were 'undesirable'.
• What were the results?

  Group A was ranked higher for positive traits. Participants recalled more positive traits for Group a and more negative traits for Group (even though there were the same proportions of each).
• Why did Group b receive more negative ratings?


  Group B's smaller size made its negative behaviours more distinct, leading to them being seen as representative of the group.
• What does the study demonstrate about stereotypes?


  Negative stereotypes may appear more common in minority groups because their behaviour stand out more.
• Give strengths for the study.

  High internal validity as a true experiment. Practical applications for understanding stereotype formation.
• Give limitations for the study. 


  Low ecological validity due to the artificial nature of the study.