Katie Duchscherer

In general, Katie is interested in the processes behind stereotyping and stereotype maintenance. She is currently researching how individual differences affect stereotype maintenance, as well as investigating popular lay justifications for making use of stereotypes. She is also researching how stereotypes are communicated through social media and Internet memes. The overall aims of this research are to investigate the application of stereotype justifications; to identify the broader social contexts in which people’s ideas about stereotyping influence their opinions of others; and to understand how stereotyping can act as a conduit for prejudice, even when the stereotypes themselves are seen as acceptable, harmless, or otherwise justifiable.