Final answer:
The statement is false; stereotypes are simplified and often negative generalizations that do not account for individual differences within groups. These generalized beliefs can lead to prejudice and discrimination and are supported by confirmation bias.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that stereotypes frequently show a full range of characteristics of different groups of people is false. By definition, a stereotype is a simplified and often negative generalization about a group of people without considering individual differences. For instance, stereotypes may suggest that a specific ethnic group has certain behaviors, which in reality cannot apply to all members of that group.
Stereotypes are influenced by factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, and age, and are persistent due to confirmation bias, where individuals look for evidence that supports their stereotypes and dismiss information that contradicts them. This can lead to prejudices and discrimination when individuals or groups are treated unfairly based on generalized beliefs rather than their individual characteristics.
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