Effects of stereotypic video game portrayals on implicit and explicit attitudes

摘要

Past research has demonstrated the negative effects of media stereotypes on implicit and explicit attitudes across various forms of media. Because video games are a relatively new form of media, there is almost no research on the influence of video game stereotypes on people\u27s attitudes. The main goal of this study was to test the effects of negative video game stereotypes on implicit and explicit attitudes. The results indicated that negative video game stereotypes are associated with negative implicit attitudes but not negative explicit attitudes. Other results revealed influences of overall media stereotypes, sources of information about groups, direct contact with the stereotyped group, peers\u27 negative attitudes towards the stereotyped group, patriotism, and past negative explicit attitudes on current implicit and explicit attitudes. Implications of media stereotypes, especially in video game are discussed, along with suggestions for future research.