The confidence associated with stereotype-driven beliefs

Past research suggests that beliefs that are based on integrated impressions are held with greater confidence than beliefs that are based on less integrated impressions. Because stereotypes often serve as "information integrators" during the impression formation process, it was hypothesized that (1) stereotype-based beliefs would be associated with greater levels of confidence than beliefs based on more individuated impressions, and (2) the greater integration associated with stereotype-based impressions would be reflected by the greater likelihood of stereotype-based beliefs being translated into action. Though results indicated that stereotype-based beliefs were held with greater confidence than more target-based beliefs, no evidence was found to support the notion that (1) differences in levels of integration between conditions resulted in differences in confidence, or (2) differences in levels of integration between conditions led to corresponding differences in inclinations to act out beliefs. Possible methodological limitations of the study are discussed.Psycholog