Final answer:
True, stereotypes are indeed absolute statements about a group that do not account for individual differences. They can manifest as both positive and negative assertions but often lead to prejudices and are bolstered by confirmation bias, even when evidence contradicts them.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stereotypes indeed are absolute statements applied to all members of a group that suggest they share a fixed, often inherited set of characteristics. This definition of a stereotype emphasizes the simplicity and rigidity of these beliefs, which may manifest as both positive and negative assertions about a group.
However, stereotypes are generally inaccurate because they do not take into account the individual variations within a group. A stereotype such as 'all teenagers are rebellious' fails to consider the myriad of unique personalities and behaviors exhibited by individuals within the teenage demographic.
Prejudices often begin as stereotypes, which are overgeneralized and applied to all members of a group, despite the fact that many individuals within the group may not fit the stereotype. Encounters with evidence that supports a stereotype can lead to confirmation bias, strengthening the belief in the stereotype even in the face of contradictory information.
Where stereotypes originate is also crucial to understanding them. They often arise from historical contexts and are repurposed to describe new groups, reflecting persistent biases within a society. Remembering the individuality of experiences and resisting the urge to overgeneralize is essential in combating stereotypes and their associated prejudices and discrimination.