Effects of positive stereotypes of sexual minorities on news consumers’ attitudes and recognition of stereotypes

• In Event: Quantitative Inquiries: Stereotypes, Attitudes, Parasocial Relationships

Abstract

This experiment tested the effects of positive and negative stereotypes of gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals in news stories on respondent attitudes, awareness of stereotypes, and affect. Exposure to positive stereotypes produced higher levels of positive affect, but respondents were less likely to recognize the presence of positive stereotypes. Exposure to positive stereotypes also resulted in less support for sexual minorities for one measure of behavioral intentions.

Authors

• Rhonda Gibson Hester, U of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

• Karen Elizabeth McIntyre, Virginia Commonwealth University