What Is a Positive Stereotype?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 27, 2020

A positive stereotype is a positive assumption made about someone based on their looks, race, social group, economic stability or gender. For example, the common belief that women are more nurturing than men is a positive stereotype. Another example is that all Italians are great cooks and lovers.

While positive stereotypes may seem complimentary, they can cause as much pain as negative stereotypes, according to Psychology Today. When people are stereotyped, they feel less like an individual and may even feel that they are not being given due credit. For example, someone who studies and gets good grades may feel that their accomplishments are not recognized if others expect them to be smart because of their race.