Abstract: The stereotype refers to an automatic categorization processing to social information. Recently, the neural mechanisms of stereotype are becoming more and more interesting to social cognitive neuroscientists with Event-Related Potentials (ERPs), functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and other neuroimaging techniques. Basing on the electroencephalogram technology, its processes in attention, representation and inhibition could receive an instantaneous assessment of underlying neural activity by specific ERP components. Furthermore, fMRI studies together with source localization of ERP studies have indicated some brain areas, like amygdala, anterior cingulate (ACC), prefrontal cortex (PFC), temporo-parietal Junction (TPJ), might be involved in the processes of stereotype. Based on previous studies, the possible cognitive modality of stereotype was proposed. Then the limitations in current research and prospects in the future were discussed briefly.

Key words: stereotype, social cognition, neural mechanisms, ERP, fMRI