NATIONAL STEREOTYPES IN MULTI-ETHNIC COMMUNITY ON THE EXAMPLE OF BIALYSTOK (Stereotypy narodowe w spolecznosci zróznicowanej etnicznie na przykladzie Bialegostoku)

The aim of the article is to describe relations and stereotypes between national groups in the city. First part of this study contains basic theories and understanding of stereotypes, which affect social interactions. National stereotypes can provide some information about a culture, but they do not describe people. In fact, unfavorable stereotypes of national or ethnic groups are potentially very dangerous, forming the bases for prejudice, discrimination, persecution, or even genocide. Second part of the article is based upon research. the author describes national stereotypes that occur between four national groups in Bialystok (Polish, Belorussian, Lithuanian and Ukrainian). Conclusions of this research is that the region is not free of negative national stereotypes and behaviours. People should learn and understand that they are all prone to these kinds of preconceptions and likely to believe that they are justified by their experience, whereas in fact they are often unfounded stereotypes.People should be seen as individuals, whether they are Polish, Lithuanian or Belorussian.