Counterstereotypic

Counterstereotypic refers to traits, roles, or behaviors that run counter to widely held stereotypes about a social group. The term is used across psychology, sociology, media studies, and education to describe representations or individuals that contradict expectations associated with gender, race, ethnicity, age, disability, or other identities.

Examples include women in leadership or STEM roles, men as primary caregivers, older adults using digital technology, people with disabilities in high-status occupations, or racialized groups performing non-stereotypical behaviors. These examples are often discussed as counterstereotypic demonstrations meant to challenge prevailing assumptions and broaden perceived norms.

In research, exposure to counterstereotypic exemplars has been studied as a way to reduce prejudice and stereotype threat. Effects vary; some studies report short-term reductions in implicit or explicit bias, while others find limited or context-dependent changes. The idea is that encountering diverse, nonconforming examples can shift attitudes and expectations, particularly when combined with perspective taking, education, or social contact.

In media and education, counterstereotypic representations aim to broaden audiences’ views and promote positive identification with groups that are typically underrepresented in certain roles. Critics caution that such portrayals can become tokenistic or inauthentic if not supported by broader structural changes, and that exposure alone may not overcome deeper discrimination or systemic barriers.

See also: counterstereotype, stereotype threat, implicit bias, representation.