Stereotype Threat: Effects and Mechanisms

This lecture explores the concept of stereotype threat, focusing on the work of Steele and Aronson in the 1990s. It discusses how negative stereotypes can impact performance, as seen in studies on African American students and gender differences in math. The lecture delves into the mechanisms behind stereotype threat, such as the activation of negative thoughts and anxiety, and how these factors mediate performance outcomes. Various studies are presented to illustrate the impact of stereotype threat on different groups and in various contexts, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing this phenomenon in educational and social settings.