Abstract :
[en] The prescriptive component of stereotypes is defined as a set of beliefs about the
characteristics group members should possess. It has mainly been studied regarding
gender stereotypes. We believe that the main function of this prescriptive component
is to allow dominant group members to maintain subordinate group members in an
advantageous position for themselves. To illustrate our proposal, we present several
theoretical and empirical papers, showing that the relative status of social groups is a
determinant of which characteristics are prescribed to the members of these groups; that
subordinates who fail to conform to the prescription are sanctioned; and that dominants
prescribe to subordinates characteristics they see as beneficial to their own group.
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