Stereotypes in iconography

Described on pg. 162 of Launching the Imagination, a stereotype is a "fixed generalization based on a preconception." In order for stereotypes to be recognized, group characteristics must be emphasized. This way, it can be interpreted by a mass amount of people. This is useful when showing exit signs or bathroom signs. Having a different sign for the men and women's bathrooms are very important. These show different stereotypes. According to the textbook, because stereotypes are a generalization, they require little thought on the basis of the audience and elicit an immediate reaction.