Final answer:
Stereotypes are reinforced by confirmation bias, the availability heuristic, and illusory correlations, but not by the 4) falsification principle, which encourages disconfirming evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stereotypes are reinforced by a variety of cognitive processes, but they are not reinforced by the falsification principle. When we seek out information that supports our stereotypes, we are engaged in confirmation bias. The availability heuristic and illusory correlations also contribute to the strengthening of stereotypes. The availability heuristic has us making decisions based on examples, information, or scenarios that come to mind most easily, which can cause us to overestimate the frequency of the occurrence of these events. Illusory correlations occur when we associate certain behaviors incorrectly with specific groups. Subsequently, this leads to reinforcing prejudicial attitudes and potential discriminatory behavior.
However, the falsification principle is not involved in the reinforcement of stereotypes. The falsification principle refers to the philosophical concept that a statement or hypothesis must be able to be tested and potentially falsified in order to be considered scientific. This principle actually encourages us to seek out evidence that may disprove our beliefs, rather than confirming them.