Overview
This lecture discusses how stereotypes influence self-perception and performance, focusing on the psychological concept of stereotype threat and its impact on individuals.
Stereotypes and Self-Image
- Stereotypes are widely held but oversimplified ideas about groups, such as "overweight people are unattractive."
- Negative stereotypes can affect how people view themselves and present themselves to others.
Stereotype Threat: Definition and Study
- Stereotype threat occurs when people feel at risk of confirming negative stereotypes about their group.
- In 1995, Claude Steele and Joshua Aronson showed that African-American students performed worse on tests described as measuring intelligence due to stereotype threat.
- When the test was described as non-diagnostic of ability, performance between African-American and white students was equal.
- Asking students to indicate their race before a test increased the negative effects of stereotype threat.
Effects and Implications of Stereotype Threat
- Individuals do not need to believe stereotypes to be affected by them.
- Stereotypes can become self-fulfilling prophecies, causing individuals to perform in ways that support negative expectations.
- Belief in stereotypes can limit confidence and ambition, potentially affecting personal relationships and achievements.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Stereotype — a widely held, oversimplified idea about a group of people.
- Stereotype threat — the risk of conforming to stereotypes about one's social group, leading to underperformance.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on stereotypes you may have internalized and consider how they might influence your behavior or performance.