Author(s)

Dawen Cai

Corresponding Author

Dawen Cai

ABSTRACT

A stereotype is a preconceived and oversimplified image or concept of a certain person or object. Prior research indicates that physical attractiveness and aggression are related, and crime and violence are connected with stereotypical black faces. Through reviewing of previous literature, the relationship among stereotype, aggression, and violence are discussed in this paper. Physical attractiveness such as beauty or ugly often lead to aggression. The reaction to physical attractiveness among males and females is different. Male participants were more likely to engage in unprovoked and reactive aggression if they were unattractive. Attractiveness predicted derogation of opponents more than any other psychopathic trait among female participants. Furthermore, stereotypical Black faces such as wide nose and full lips linked to crime and violence. The Black facial features sometimes lead to memory error. Moreover, factors such as envy and restrictive emotionality have a strong connection with stereotype and aggression. In conclusion, stereotype is both associated with aggression and violence. Limitations from previous research and suggestions for potential future studies are discussed.

KEYWORDS

Stereotype, physical attractiveness, aggression, violence, envy, emotionality